William "Bill" James Connors

Bill was born August 8, 1937, in Hartford, CT.  He graduated with an Associate's degree in mechanical engineering from State Technical College in Hartford.  Bill had an entrepreneurial spirit, founding his own business as a manufacturer's representative which he ran for over 50 years. Bill loved golf and was a longtime member at both Wethersfield Country Club in Wethersfield, CT and Landfall Country Club in Wilmington, NC.  He was a masterful joke teller with a unique ability to bring people together and make them laugh.  Bill loved his family and friends and almost always viewed life with optimism.  In fact, he often said “today’s the first day of the rest your life, make it the best one yet!”  Most of all, Bill’s heart was filled with love and he was known for his generosity.  

Bill's parents were James R. Connors and Alice B. Kelley. Bill was predeceased by his siblings Barbara Biella and Jerry Connors and is survived by his sister Sharon Viggiano (Anthony).

Bill is survived by his wife Eloise Connors of 43 years.  His children James (Jimmy) Connors, Carolyn Campanelli (Joseph) and Christopher (Chris) Connors. His grandchildren Alexandra (Allie) Campanelli, Connor Campanelli and Joseph (Jac) Campanelli.

Stepchildren are Debbie Wilson husband Kevin Wilson and Chuck Raynor.

Step-grandchildren are Norwood (Woody) Wilson, Jr., Lauren Grimes husband Jordan Grimes, Kylie Wilson, Jonathan Raynor wife Kristen Raynor, Nikki Barta husband Hunter Barta, Celena Raynor and Aaron Raynor.  Step great-grandchildren are Skyler and Lillian Barta, Lennox Raynor and Wilson Grimes.

Burial will be private with a memorial service to follow at a later date.

Bill will be greatly missed by his family and many friends. In his memory donations may be made to Wrightsville United Methodist Church, Wrightsville Beach, NC.

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