Ed Connolly

Thomas Edward “Ed” Connolly, Jr., age 82, of Orlando, Florida, gently went home to be with the Lord on January 13, 2026, surrounded by the people he loved most — his devoted wife of 55 years, his two sons, and close family friends. His passing was peaceful, marked by love, faith, and the assurance of eternal life in Christ.

Ed was born in Orlando on December 5, 1943, to Thomas Edward Connolly, Sr. and Martha Bowden Connolly. A true Orlando native, he spent his life rooted in the community he loved. He graduated from Evans High School in 1964 and soon after answered the call to serve his country, proudly spending four years in the United States Air Force. His service reflected the values he lived by throughout his life - dedication, discipline, and quiet strength.

Gifted with remarkable versatility and a strong work ethic, Ed’s professional life spanned many fields. He worked in management, air conditioning, electrical, and audiovisual services, and later became self-employed. Whatever role he took on, Ed approached his work with excellence, integrity, and a genuine desire to help others. He was known as someone who could fix just about anything — not only with his hands, but with patience, wisdom, and a calm presence.

Ed’s faith was the foundation of his life. For 51 years, he was a faithful and committed member of Church at the Cross, where he joyfully served in multiple roles within the audiovisual ministry. He found special fulfillment in mentoring and training young people, generously sharing his knowledge while encouraging them to grow in confidence and faith. His influence reached far beyond the sound booth, touching lives through steady guidance, kindness, and example.

Above all else, Ed was a loving and devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He deeply cherished his wife, Sonda, loving her tenderly and faithfully throughout their 55 years of marriage. He was a wonderful dad who delighted in spending quality time with his sons, Eric and John, creating lasting memories through special activities, meaningful conversations, and shared laughter. Family gatherings and celebrations were especially dear to him, and he took great joy in opening his home to bring family and friends together.

Ed leaves behind a legacy of love through his family: his beloved wife Sonda; his sons Eric and John (Mindy); his grandsons Austin Mykle Connolly (Lacy) and Austin Taylor Mastin (Haley); and his granddaughters Katlyn Connolly and Kiersten Connolly, each of whom held a special place in his heart. He is also survived by his brother Charles Conolly, his sister Audrey Moo, and several cherished Connolly nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his younger brother, Paul Connolly, whom he now joyfully reunites with in heaven.

While Ed will be deeply missed here on earth, those who love him are comforted by the unshakable assurance that he is now in the presence of his Savior, Jesus Christ. His life was a testimony of faith, service, humility, and unconditional love — a legacy that will continue to live on in the hearts of his family, his church, and all who were blessed to know him.

A Gathering of Family and Friends will be held at Woodlawn Funeral Home, located at 400 Woodlawn Cemetery Road, Gotha, FL, 34734, February 28, 2026, at 10:00 AM followed by a Celebration of Life at 11:00 AM