HuEllen Briscoe Connolly

It is with heavy hearts that the family of HuEllen Briscoe Connolly announce her passing. Lovingly remembered as a devoted daughter, mother, "Minnie" to her grandchildren, cherished friend, and educator, HuEllen left us peacefully on August 22, 2025 at the age of 81 in Athens, Georgia.
Born in Atlanta on December 27, 1943 to T.W. and Bessie Snell Briscoe, HuEllen was raised in Snellville, surrounded, nurtured and known in the once rural community. After graduating from South Gwinnett High School in 1961, she completed two years of college at Young Harris College and went on to earn a bachelor's degree in education at the University of Georgia in 1965. It was there that she met the love of her life, a veterinary student, Bill Connolly. Bill and HuEllen married on July 18, 1965.
HuEllen dedicating her professional life to shaping young minds. She began her teaching career in Winder, then in Mooresville, NC, where HuEllen taught at Troutman Elementary School while Bill worked long days in veterinary medicine. It did not take long for them to return to Snellville, where Bill built a thriving practice as they raised their two sons, Jon and Jason, close to family and dear friends. She and Bill filled their days on their hobby farm and took their boys on many road trips across the country.
Later in her career, HuEllen devoted her time in school administration at W.C. Britt and Pharr Elementary schools. She was an active lifelong member of Snellville United Methodist Church (now Snellville Community Church), an enthusiastic reader, talented quilter, and avid gardener. In retirement, HuEllen faithfully volunteered in a special education classroom. She and Bill enjoyed peaceful weekends at their cabin in Blairsville, GA, and spent time with their children and grandchildren. HuEllen looked forward to lunch with her Red Hat friends, organizing class reunions, meeting with her church circle, special trips with dear friends, and the annual Snell family reunion.
HuEllen was plain, but kind when it came to her expectations: good manners, and punctuality were important to her, as well as knowing the weather forecast for herself and her loved ones! She was positive, generous, fun-loving, modest, and had a genuine compassion for people. HuEllen made everyone feel welcomed and encouraged-often with humor and a warm smile.
HuEllen was a devoted wife to Bill. They shared 58 wonderful years together until his passing in 2023. During his health struggles in the latter years, she was a committed caregiver.
Above all, HuEllen's humility, kindness, strength, and humor created a home filled with joy, laughter, support, and unconditional love. She taught by example-showing her children and grandchildren how to live with grace and faith, how to care deeply, and how to laugh even on the hard days.
For HuEllen, family was everything.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Dr. Bill Connolly; her cherished parents Thomas W. Briscoe, Sr. and Bessie Snell Briscoe; and her adored brother Thomas W. Briscoe, Jr.
HuEllen is survived by two sons: Jon Connolly and his wife Rachel Adams, of New York, NY; Jason T. Connolly and wife Jill, of Watkinsville, GA; and four grandchildren: Eleanor Connolly (Houston, TX) and Eliza Connolly (Watkinsville, GA), Noah and Henry Connolly of New York City; and her cherished sister-in-law, Sue Briscoe of Snellville.
The family would like to express gratitude to the dedicated nurses and staff, as well as the devoted friends who surrounded HuEllen with love, compassion, and friendship while at Presbyterian Village of Athens. Also, they are thankful for the wonderful care provided by Inspire Hospice of Athens's nurses and caregivers.
The family welcomes visitors at Tom Wages Snellville Chapel on Friday, August 29, from 4:00-7:00 pm. (3705 US 78, Snellville, GA). A celebration of HuEllen's life will be held on Saturday, August 30, 2025 at 11:00 am at Snellville Community Church (2428 Main Street East, Snellville, GA). In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Camp Glisson (www.glisson.org), Young Harris College (www.yhc.edu) or Snellville Community Church (www.snellvillecc.org) in her memory.
Condolences may be sent or viewed at www.wagesfuneralhome.com. Tom M. Wages Funeral Service, A Family Company, 3705 Highway 78 West, Snellville, GA 30039 (770-979-3200) has been entrusted with the arrangements.