Edward J. Connolly

Edward J Connolly, 77, passed away on Monday, February 24, 2020, surrounded by his loving family after a long and courageous battle with MDS. Born in Newark, he attended Sacred Heart Grammar School in Vailsburg and went on to graduate from Our Lady of the Valley, in West Orange. He entered the US Navy and proudly served during the Vietnam War.

He is survived by his wife Kate (Kathleen Murray} of 52 years, his son Kevin and wife Lori, his son Craig and wife Michele and his son Ryan E. Connolly. He also leaves behind his precious granddaughter Delaney Rose and his grandsons Luke and Ben. He adored his nephews and niece and their spouses, and great-nephews and great-niece. He was pre-deceased by his loving parents Margaret R. Connolly and William P. Connolly and his brother William “Bill” Connolly.

Ed began his career as a Newark Firefighter and served with pride for 35 years, retiring in 1998 with rank of Captain. He was assigned as a firefighter to Engine 9, then was promoted to Captain of Truck 2 and later Truck 1.

Ed also owned and operated his own window cleaning business for over 40 years. He was an active member of the Essex County Emerald Society, and the Essex County Retired Police and Fire Association.

A funeral Mass will be offered on Tuesday, March 3rd, at 10:30 AM, at St. Philomena’s Church. Livingston. Cremation will be private.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations in Ed’s name to any of the Scholarship funds listed: Emerald Society Scholarship Fund, 37 Columbia Avenue, Cranford, NJ 07016, Attn Michael Connolly, Treasurer, Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, P.O. Box 61, Cranford, N.J. 07016, Attn: Kevin Connolly, Trustee and Union County Daughters of Ireland, P.O. Box 340, Garwood, NJ 07027. Attn: Lori Connolly, VP