Robert 'Bob' Connolly

Robert “Bob” Connolly, 85, of Pelham New Hampshire, passed away peacefully on August 8, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on April 15, 1940, in Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts, to the late John and Helena Connolly and raised by his Aunt Mary Connolly, Bob was proud of his Irish heritage and lived a life guided by faith and devotion to family. The Connolly family motto, “In God is All,” was more than just words—it was the foundation upon which Bob built his life.

Bob graduated from Mount Saint Charles Academy in Rhode Island and continued his education at Northeastern University. He served honorably in the Army National Guard before dedicating much of his professional life to the insurance industry and teaching at the Open Bible Academy. Later, he worked at Lahey Clinic until his retirement. He was affectionately known as the "Mayor of Lahey". Whether as a teacher or a colleague, Bob brought warmth, humor, and genuine care to every role he held. At Lahey Clinic, both as an employee and later as a patient, he was known for walking the halls with a smile, asking everyone how their day was going—and truly wanting to know.

Bob’s faith was central to his life. In April of 1976, he heard the gospel for the first time, that Christ died for the sins of all. He realized his own need to be saved and trusted Christ as his Savior. He dearly loved his church family; if the church doors were open, Bob was there. He studied the Bible and prayed daily for those he loved. His spiritual strength and unwavering belief were a source of comfort and inspiration to many.

Bob and his beloved wife Marilyn shared 61 years of marriage—a love story that began with a whirlwind courtship of just three months and grew into a lifetime of devotion. Their bond was one of laughter, resilience, and steadfast support. Through every joy and challenge, Bob remained Marilyn’s rock—a true gentleman who made her laugh every single day.

He was a devoted father to Christine and her husband Patrick, and to Jimmy and his wife Tricia. He was predeceased by his daughter Marilyn, whose memory remained ever close to his heart. As “Grampy” to Cassandra, Brad, Cailee, Aidan, Keira, and Emma, Bob created a legacy of love. When distance separated the family, he and Marilyn traveled to New Jersey and Pennsylvania determined not to miss a moment. There were summers at the cottage in Groton, annual trips to Ossipee NH, bike rides on scenic trails across the state, sports games, school programs, holidays and birthdays filled with laughter, Friday night dinners, and countless other cherished moments.

To his many nieces and nephews, he was simply Uncle Bob—known for his unmatched sense of humor, kindness, and ability to make everyone feel seen and heard. His sister Ellen survives him; their lifelong bond was one of mutual care and deep love. He is also remembered with affection by the memory of his sister Barbara.

He found joy in cross country skiing and riding bikes with Marilyn on trails throughout New England. They treasured their time together each summer at their cottage. Many bowls of popcorn and ice cream were shared while watching hockey, tennis, and Hallmark movies.

Those who knew Bob will remember him for his infectious laughter—if Bob was in the room, people were smiling. He had an extraordinary ability to connect with others through humor and compassion. Whether offering a listening ear or sharing a lighthearted joke, Bob made people feel valued.

Bob Connolly lived a life marked by faithfulness to God, to family, and to all those fortunate enough to know him. His memory will live on in stories shared around dinner tables, in laughter echoing through family gatherings, and in the quiet strength he instilled in those he loved.

May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him. A Memorial Service will be held on August 16, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Grace Bible Church, 517 Methuen St, Dracut, MA 01826

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Wounded Warrior Project.