John J. Connolly

John J. Connolly, 87, passed away peacefully Wednesday, December 26, 2012, at his home with his family by his side. He was the husband of 58 years of Regina A. (Cotter) Connolly. Born in South Boston, he was raised and educated in South Boston Schools. As a young man, he played semi-pro football for the Chippewas. He was a World War II Veteran of the United States Navy, serving on the USS Bennington. Mr. Connolly worked in the Charlestown Navy Yard as a pipefitter for over 30 years, retiring many years ago. An avid golfer, he was a lifelong fan of the Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots.

In addition to his wife, Mr. Connolly is survived by his children, Patti Kovalski and her husband Tony, Jane McGuirk and her husband Stuart all of Duxbury, John J. Connolly MD and his wife Kathleen Connolly, MD of Marion and Diane M. Gemba and her husband Tony of Sharon. He was the brother of the late Thomas and Joseph Connolly. He was the loving and devoted grandfather of Jennifer and Jillian Kovalski, Brendan, Caroline and Katie McGuirk and Gina Gemba. He is also survived by his sister in law Marie Cotter and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral will be held from the Farley Funeral Home, 358 Park St. (Rt.27) Stoughton on Saturday at 9:30 AM followed by a Funeral Mass at Immaculate Conception Church, Stoughton at 10:30 AM. Visiting Hours Friday from 5-8 PM. Interment will take place at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Stoughton. Donations in Jack's memory may be made to the Jimmy Fund, PO Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284 or www.jimmyfund.org.