It is with a heavy heart that we share the news of the passing of Patricia A. Connelly. Pat, aged 83, left us peacefully on March 17, 2024 at her home on Martha’s Vineyard, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and devotion. She was a treasured wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend to many, and her absence will be deeply felt by all who knew her.
Born on Dec. 15, 1940, in New London, Conn., she was the daughter of William and Elizabeth (Kerns) Lilly.
Pat spent her life giving back to her community. Her dedication to her work was evident in the many roles she held throughout her career. From her years at Connelly Law, where she oversaw all administrative operations, to her time at the Good Hope Center, and Gov. John H. Chafee’s Office, where she served as an executive secretary, Pat was known for her unwavering commitment to excellence. Beyond her professional contributions, Pat was also deeply involved in many causes throughout the state of Rhode Island. As the director of development at School One in Providence and Our Lady of Fatima Hospital, she worked tirelessly to improve facilities and introduce marketing plans, among other initiatives. Her passion and devotion will be sorely missed.
Pat and her family were summer residents of Martha’s Vineyard from 1977 until they retired full-time. Pat considered the Island to be her true home, where she enjoyed spending time with many friends, playing golf at Farm Neck, spending time at the beach, and entertaining friends in the Campgrounds. But most of all, she enjoyed sharing the magic of the Island with her grandkids and grand-nephews. Her memory will be cherished by all who knew her.
She was the beloved wife of the late Robert J. (“Bob”) Connelly Jr. She was also the twin sister (and best friend) of the late Dan Lilly, and her late sister in law, Pat Buonanno. Pat is survived by her adoring children, RJ and his wife Jennifer of Mystic, Conn., and Jeff of Pawcatuck, Conn., as well as her loving grandchildren, Andrew, Maggie, Jack. and Palmer. She also leaves many nieces and nephews, as well as her best friend and sister-in-law, Jean Lilly.
A Mass of Christian burial was held on Thursday, March 21, in Our Lady of Consolation Church in Pawtucket. Burial followed in Mount St. Mary Cemetery.
The family would like to thank her entire care team, especially Melanie and Justin Leblanc, with their dedicated and loving care, for allowing her to remain in the home that she loved so much. In lieu of flowers, a donation to Hospice and Palliative Care of Martha’s Vineyard, PO Box 1748, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568, in Pat’s name, would be greatly appreciated.