William H. Connelly

Dear Connelly Family,

I happened upon your Dad's obit and a flood of happy childhood memories came into my heart and mind. Visits by Brownie and the fun hiding in the shed under the house where the bikes were stored. My condolences at the loss of your magnanimous Dad (that is how I remember him) and Frankie too. I think I still have a photo of Dicky with me when we swapped winter coats. Peace to the family, Love, Elaine

Dear Family and Friends of Bill - what a wonderful life Bill had, and Ron and I had because of him. Out first visit to Suffield in 1962 - on our way to Fort Bragg courtesy of the US Army, and that was our first meeting with Bill and Frankie. Bill sold Ron a life insurance policy at the 'bride and groom' reception. We still laugh at that. Bill and Frankie were friends with Ron's dear sister and brother in law - Nell and John Jenkinson. Because of Nell - and the vision of having friends like family,we moved here in 1971 and have lived across the street since 1979. Bill was always an inspiration - to us and our daughters - especially Sarah- Rev. Dr. Sarah Birmingham Drummond. When I last saw Bill - a few weeks before he passed I told him Sarah was headed back to Yale to be Dean of the Theological School there. Not a Baptist - but close enough.

We want to express our feelings - not of sympathy - because he had a life well lived, but our feelings of gratitude for having known him. I have a picture of Bill, Frankie, Ron and me from our 50th Wedding anniversary - 2012 - which has more memories than can be conveyed by a snap shot.

I also want to acknowledge Aldene - the ever faithful - the act of putting her life goals on hold to be with Bill to the end. What greater gift.

Love to all of you... may you continue to feel the inspiration from Bill and Frankie.

What an honor it was to get to know Bill and Frankie in their elder years. Visits at their gracious home on Main Street were a pleasure. It seemed like Bill could talk in an informed and interesting manner about nearly any topic -- he had so many interests.

My prayers are with your family, and with the many, many who were privileged to know Bill and Frankie as part of their spiritual family. They have been an inspiration to us all.

Bless us and Keep us Gracious God,
Erica Wimber Avena, Interim Pastor

I was so fortunate to work with Bill at the Hartford Foundation. What a wise, giving, caring, happy soul! All of us who knew him are better for it. He will be greatly missed.
Gretchen Fountain

My dearest Connelly family - I was such a part of your lives for so many years. After I moved to Ohio, one of my favorite visits to Connecticut was with Bill and Frankie!! I was always so thrilled to see them, and catch up on the family. Bill was like a father to me for years!! I spent so many days into nights on Main Street - along with many years at the shore with such fond memories. I know Bill is at peace, and now joining his beloved wife, Frankie. He will always be a special part of my life. God bless two wonderful people!!

To the Connelly Family,
My very deepest sympathy on Bill's passing. Bill and Frankie were such a wonderful, intelligent, caring couple!! They gave so much to the Suffield Community and to so many friends. It was a pleasure to know and be with them. I have always treasured their friendship!!

To the Connelly family,
My prayers and sympathy to all of you on the loss of this wonderful man. He had such a love of life, people and especially family. He and your Mom are together once again, holding hands and shining down on all of you. My life is richer having known both of your parents and I will remain eternally grateful for the love they shared with me so unselfishly. God Bless you all and comfort you at this difficult time.

With deepest sympathy during this time of difficulty.