Barry James Connelly passed away peacefully on June 19, 2021. Barry's love of life was reflected in his strong will to battle through many difficult illnesses over the past two years. He always tried to stay positive and frequently found humor in even the toughest of situations. He was a gifted story teller and loved recounting life’s funnier moments. He had a heart of gold, was extremely generous, helped others in any way he could and never asked for anything in return. His family and friends are better people for having him in their lives. He’s probably in heaven right now having a martini, laughing and sharing stories with his best friend, Eddie Malik, who passed away the previous year.
Barry graduated from Boston College High School in 1957 then received his Bachelor’s degree at Boston College in 1961. Before attending law school, he went to Jamaica as a member of the Catholic outreach program where he taught English at Saint Mary’s Above Rocks High School in the mountains of Jamaica. When he returned home, he went to Boston Law School where he received his Juris Doctor degree. After graduation, Barry became Staff Attorney at Boston Legal Assistance Project. In 1969 he was hired by Crane, Inker, and Oteri in Boston, Massachusetts as a Legal Associate. In 1973 he became partner at the same law firm which became White, Inker, Aronson, Connelly and Norton. In 1985, Barry started his own law firm, Connelly and Norton with his friend and colleague, John Norton, in Union Wharf, Boston. His accomplishments were many including President of the Massachusetts Chapter of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers from 1993 to 1994. Barry was listed as “Best Lawyers in America” and received the prestigious Honorable Haskell C. Freedman Award.
Barry was born in Boston Massachusetts on October 9, 1939; the youngest son of Helen M. (Barry) and Roderick R. Connelly. He is survived by his loving wife, Christine Connelly; his children, Christine (Edward) Tobin and Barry Connelly, Jr.; his stepchildren, Michelle Williamson and Michael (Katie) Picariello; his grandchildren, Edward Tobin IV, James Tobin, Roderick Tobin, Fiona Tobin, Michael “Peps” Beyrouti, Gino Picariello, and Nina Picariello; and several loving nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his siblings, Roderick M. Connelly, Walter J. Connelly, and Regina Shea, and his niece, Julie Connelly.
His Funeral Service will be held on July 10, 2021 at 9 a.m. at Grace Episcopal Church, 133 School Street, New Bedford. Immediately following there will be a Graveside Service at Riverside Cemetery, 274 Main Street, Fairhaven. For online condolence book, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.