William E. Connolly, Jr.

William E. Connolly Jr. of Milton and Quincy, originally South Boston, born on May 4th, 1950, and died January 2, 2026.

Bill adored his family, and his family adored him. He lived his life as an authentic, genuine person who not only led his family but also inspired his community through his kindness, quick wit and strength while facing adversity. He graduated from Catholic Memorial High School and Boston College. He was an Air Force Captain and retired from the federal government before enjoying retirement as a grandfather and devoted husband. His faith was important to him, he was an avid reader, especially in historical novels, and enjoyed skiing, swimming, playing guitar and going to the beach down the Cape and swimming at his favorite spot in Falmouth at Nobska Light House. Bill always gave back and was a Quincy Youth Hockey coach and ran seasonal camps where he built character and work ethics for the local kids. He loved to travel and his Irish heritage. He was a smart, strong man who was full of life, full of fun and never forgot where he came from and lived his life in humility, grace and with honor. He will be greatly missed.

Loving son of the late William E. Connolly, Sr. BFD and Claire (Gill) Connolly. Beloved husband of Kathleen (Sullivan) Connolly of Milton. Devoted father of William E. Connolly, III and his wife Beth of Grosse Pointe Woods, MI, and the late Erin Kathleen Connolly. Loving brother of Annemarie Connolly Tokoff and her husband Joshua of Brookline. Cherished “Pacy” of Coleman Smith Connolly and Beatrice Claire Connolly and a beloved uncle.

Relatives and friends invited to greet the family during the visiting hours on Sunday January 11th from 3-6 PM in the Keohane Funeral Home, 785 Hancock St., Quincy. A Celebration of Life Service in the funeral home at 9:30 AM on January 12th held prior to the Funeral Mass in St. Ann’s Church, Quincy at 10:30 AM. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, charitable donations in memory of Bill may be provided to Croí Health Charitable Fund (formerly Norwell Visiting Nurse Association & Hospice Charitable Fund), 120 Longwater Drive, Norwell, MA 02061.