Robert J. Connelly

Bob was predeceased by his beloved wife of 52 years, Sallie (Webb) Connelly, in 2019. He was the son of Norma Connelly (née Fritchley) and Joseph Vonderhaar and was also lovingly raised by his second father, Eddie Connelly.

Bob is survived by his son, Sean Connelly, and wife, Kelly, and his grandchildren, Katherine and Duncan, all of Alexandria, VA. He is also survived by his cousin, Gary Vonderhaar, and his wife, Letty, of Hampton, VA; and by two nephews, Mark Nowak and Brian Casterlin.

Bob was deeply rooted in his community and was proudly affiliated with the Binghamton Boys and Girls Club for over 70 years, serving on the Board for more than 40 of them. Bob and Sallie opened their home and hearts to over 20 international exchange students, forming lasting connections around the globe. Together, they traveled extensively, with trips across Europe, Russia, China, many visits to Martinique, and throughout the United States.

Locally, Bob was well known through Bob & Sallie Connelly Auctions & Appraisals. He supported countless charities in the process. Whether at the auction podium, their annual clambakes, or in conversation, Bob always had an arsenal of jokes, sharing his humor generously with all who crossed his path.

A nationally recognized appraiser, Bob was well-known in the world of antiques, renowned for his encyclopedic knowledge, generous spirit, and willingness to share his expertise with anyone who showed interest. He was a member of the American Society of Appraisers since 1974 and the Appraisers Association of America since 1992. Bob was also known for his appearances on the television show Personal FX, where he shared his expertise with a wide audience.

Bob also had a lifelong passion for cars and motorsports, serving as the manager of the Tri-Cities Dragway. He was a member of the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) for over 50 years. More recently, he and Sallie ran a reunion event named “A Blast from the Past” for almost a decade, creating a vibrant community around the track.

Throughout his life, Bob inspired many with his depth of wisdom, kindness, and commitment to helping others, especially children. He was a loving father and grandfather and a trusted friend to many, looked upon as a second father by many for decades. A heartfelt thank you to Brad Kirby and his family, and to Mark Nowak, for their support of Robert. And a special thank you to Bobby Billo for his decades of dedication and friendship to both Bob and Sallie.

Bob’s passing is a great loss to his family, friends, colleagues, and the countless lives he touched. His guidance, humor, and generosity made all who knew him more knowledgeable and capable, and he will be greatly missed.

The family will receive friends at the Wm. R. Chase & Son Funeral Home, 737 Chenango Street, Port Dickinson on Friday, July 25, 2025 from 4-6pm. A Funeral Mass will be offered on Saturday, July 26, 2025, 10am, at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 1049 Chenango Street, Binghamton. Burial will be in the Glen Castle Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Binghamton Boys & Girls Club in Bob’s memory.