Richard F Connelly's Obituary
RICHARD F. CONNELLY, 79
LAKELAND - Richard F. Connelly, 79, passed away February 25, 2016, with his family at the Carpenter Estates in Lakeland, FL. He was born February 2, 1937, in Exeter, NH. Richard was the son of Mary (White) Connelly Wasson and Edward J. Connelly and the step son of Harold Wasson. He was a life long resident of NH until 1995, when they made their residency in Lakeland, FL.
Mr. Connelly graduated from Sanborn Seminary Class of 1955. He was a U.S. Army veteran and was a safety engineer with Aetna Insurance Company for 7 years. Prior to his appointment to the Postmaster of East Kingston, NH. He held his appointment as a Postmaster until 1995, when he retired. Both his father and mother preceded him as Postmaster in East Kingston, this providing the family tradition of over 49 years in service to that community. In East Kingston he was active in the establishment of the little league, also, served as a selectman. He held numerous offices in the NH chapter of the National Association of Post-masters, as well as leadership positions at various national conventions. He also served as the New England council of Postmasters.
He loved music and his presence was often noted by his whistling and singing. His day was frequently started with a song. He enjoyed playing the organ, clarinet and saxophone. He enjoyed all sports and particularly liked playing golf, until he was introduced to tennis. He spent a great deal of time with barber shop quartets and acting in plays and singing for programs put on by the Sandpiper. He also had many opportunities singing the national anthem for Tiger Stadium.
He is survived by his adoring wife, Mary Bernaby Connelly; his son, Michael and wife, Jennifer; his daughter, Kimberly and husband, Steve; his six grandsons; and one great grandson.
A visitation will be held at 9:30 am at St. Josephs Catholic Church in Lakeland, FL followed by a service at 10:30 am on Thursday, March 3, 2016. Gentry-Morrison Funeral Home at Serenity Gardens.
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