Obituary of Gerald Francis Connolly

GERALD F. CONNOLLY

ALBANY - Gerald Francis Connolly, 83 of Albany, entered into eternal life on Tuesday, July 4, 2023.

Born in Albany, NY, on November 7th, 1939 he was the son of the late Bernard and Moira (Whelan) Connolly.

Jerry lived a long and fulfilling life. He served his country and community as a member of the Army National Guard. He proudly attended St. Bernard's Seminary where the foundation was laid for lifelong friendships and connections which spanned throughout the local Catholic community. Truly a devout Catholic, Jerry was a generous supporter of multiple catholic-based charities. He was a former parishioner of The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Albany as well as St. Ambrose Catholic Church in Latham. "Coach", as he was affectionately referred to as by friends and colleagues, was dedicated to youth sports throughout his life. He was a high school basketball coach for over 20 years at St. Joseph's, Vincentian Institute, and later Bishop Maginn. He was very dedicated to his athletes, helping them succeed not only in basketball but also in life. He was also a high school football official for over a decade. Jerry worked as a director for the New York State Department of Equalization and Assessment for thirty years retiring in 1995. He then went on to obtain his Real Estate License and worked as an agent with Realty USA and later Howard Hanna until 2020. An avid golfer his whole life, Jerry was a member of Normanside Country Club and later Wolfert's Roost Country Club. He was a dedicated fan of the Siena Saints and his beloved Boston Red Sox. He was also dedicated to his daughter and grandson's sports traveling all over to be a supporter. His quick wit and love of his family and friends will be sorely missed by all of those who knew and loved him. May he rest in peace.

In addition to his parents Jerry is predeceased by his siblings Bernard "Buz" Connolly, Robert Connolly, and Rosalie Gaul. He is survived by his former wife Pauline (Faughey) Connolly, daughter Mary Beth (Brian DiBenedetto), grandsons Nathan and Ryan Mikulsky, as well as sisters-in-law Jeanne and Mary Lou Connolly, Cecelia Faughey, Margie Mirabile, Kay Raymond, and Mary Cerny along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Relatives and friends are cordially invited to attend calling hours on Saturday, July 8th, 2023 from 9:00 to 11:00 AM at the Dufresne & Cavanaugh Funeral Home, 149 Old Loudon Rd., Latham.

The Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11:30 AM at St. Pius X Church, 23 Crumitie Rd., Loudonville, with Rev. Russell Bergman, celebrant.

Interment to immediately follow the mass at St. Agnes Cemetery, Menands.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations in Jerry's honor may be made to Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Albany at https://www.ccrcda.org/give-help/donate-online/.

To offer a message of condolence or for further information please visit www.dufresneandcavanaugh.com.