Jeffrey A. Connelly

Jeffrey A. Connelly left us on April 10, 2025, and we're certain he was greeted by family, friends and pups that left before him. Always strong, always resilient, always bouncing back, he now leaves a hole in the hearts of those that love him.
Jeff had many accomplishments in his life, all of which are highlighted on the Brugger Funeral Homes and Crematory website. All those accomplishments paled in comparison to being a dad and husband. His greatest joy was his family.
Jeff leaves behind his wife of 35 years, Kimberly (Losak) Connelly and his son, Taylor Prosper Connelly; brothers Judge Shad Connelly (Sheila) and Marc Connelly (Linda D. Seliga, deceased); Sisters-in-law Cindy Losak and Susan Losak. He enjoyed many nieces and nephews and countless friends he treasured.
An Open House to celebrate Jeff's life will be held on Saturday, April 26th from 3:00-6:00 at Hunter's Inn, 1204 W. 26th St. Memorials may be made to the Erie Cancer Wellness Center, 2212 W. 15th, 16505.
Jeff was the second son born to Prosper and Rose Connelly who predeceased him.
Jeff wrote parts of his obituary in advance of his passing, and if you knew him, you would appreciate his message left to us that loved him. These are highlights in his words:
Well, despite my best efforts, I'm dead.
A few thoughts: Foremost, I thank my wife Kim for everything she did for me, from her unquestioned support, love and commitment. She is the most gracious, kind, generous, tolerant loving and supportive individual I have ever known, and I thank God for allowing me to have her in my life.
I have a son; the best thing I've ever done in my life, and I have experienced a love I never thought possible. My time with you, Taylor, showed me the reason I existed. I will be with you always. The two most beautiful words I have ever heard or used are 'son' and 'dad'. Thank you for the gift of you.
I regret nothing, no choice, no action. Without taking every action, I did, which I can't imagine being more exciting and interesting, resulting in having my son and wife. It was a great life.
I've enjoyed the blessing of great brothers and friends. I've disappointed and hurt some, but none more than myself. I hope that during my life I helped or even inspired others. I have great memories of growing up on 28th street with David, Gary and Ernie, lifelong friends. I am and will always be a Wittenberg Tiger. I made friendships there that extended throughout my life. Tiger Up!
I had the opportunity to be involved in sports-wrestling and football in high school and college. I had exceptional coaches who took a little fat kid and turned him into an athlete worthy of being inducted into the Wittenberg Athletic Hall of Honor (thank you for believing in me, Dad), my greatest athletic accomplishment.
As an adult, I competed in national body building competitions for eight years and have many accolades. Competing and working out maintained my mental health. The harder I trained, the better I felt.
After Wittenberg, I went on to law school at Nova Southeastern University graduating cum laude and was an attorney for 30+ years. I overcame a cocaine addiction back when 'cocaine wasn't addictive' and 'lawyers aren't addicts' and enjoyed a successful private practice where I'm hopeful I made a difference to my clients.
In closing, I lived a great life with no regrets and never gave up, no matter the difficulty. Know that everyone with whom I've had contact, because of you, gave me the greatest life I could have ever imagined. What a ride, what a joy.
Ps- Celebrate my life-share memories, play oldies, drink a Bud.