Gerard “Gerry” Connelly

Gerard "Gerry" E. Connelly, 78, beloved husband of Rose Marie (DiBurro) Connelly of Hampton NH, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2025, surrounded by his loving family at Massachusetts General Hospital. Born in Brooklyn, New York, Gerry was the son of the late Patrick and Julia (Lavan) Connelly. He grew up in Brooklyn before his family settled in Lindenhurst, Long Island. After attending City College of New York, he began his career as a carpet salesman for Bigelow Carpet, a path that brought him to New England. It was here that he discovered his lifelong love of Maine and, more importantly, met the love of his life, Rose, over lunch at DiBurro's Restaurant. Together, they built a beautiful life and home on Hoyt Road in Bradford, surrounded by lifelong friends and a large, close-knit family. After leaving the carpet industry, Gerry became a general contractor, focusing much of his work in Maine near Long Lake, where his family spent their summers. Long Lake remained one of his happiest places-where again he formed lifelong friendships, spending quality time with his family, cherishing the beautiful retreat he created there. Gerry loved life and embraced every part of it. He loved his work, his travels, sports, good food, and most of all, time with family and friends. From his early days working at Bay Ridge Deli to hosting gatherings in later years, Gerry found joy in bringing people together and making sure everyone around him was having a good time. Winters led Gerry and Rose to Pompano Beach, Florida, following Rose's brother Ernie. Their seasonal home at the Aegean became a place of warmth and connection, where friends quickly became family. Gerry and Rose cherished their beach days, exploring nearby cities, and hosting their annual building-wide parties-events everyone looked forward to, complete with Gerry's trademark enthusiasm and flair. Above all, family was Gerry's greatest joy. His grandchildren were his pride and delight. He always wanted to be a part of their lives, cheering them on and sharing in their accomplishments, big or small. Gerry is survived by his devoted wife of 53 years, Rose Marie (DiBurro); his three children, Holly A. and husband Jim Roche of Bradford, Keith R. Shain and wife Tina of Hampstead, NH, and Kerri A. and husband Todd Cain of Hampton, NH; his siblings David Connelly of Pompano Beach, FL, Ronald Connelly and wife Lynn of Stanhope, NJ, and George Connelly and wife Heide of Franklin, MA; and was predeceased by his sister Maryann Murphy. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren, Shain Roche, Seamus Roche, Patrick Roche, Taylor Shain, Kelsey Shain, Brodie Cain, and Kalie Cain; Danny and Brittany Snow and their daughter Aubrey; as well as several nieces, nephews, and dear friends. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend calling hours on Thursday, September 11th, from 9:30–11:00 a.m. at Sacred Hearts Church, 165 South Main St., Bradford. His Funeral Mass of Christian Burial will immediately follow, with interment in St. Patrick Cemetery, North Broadway, Haverhill. Arrangements are by the H.L. Farmer & Sons Bradford Funeral Home, 210 South Main St., Bradford. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Gerry's memory may be made to Sacred Hearts Parish, 48 South Chestnut St., Bradford, MA 01835. To share a memory or for more information please visit www.farmerfuneralhomes.com