John J (Jack) Connolly, Sr. of Whitman, Massachusetts, originally from Dorchester, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday March 16, 2023 at the age of 84.
Son of the late John and Mary Connolly. Brother to Sr. Ann Marie Connolly (SND), Pat Lane, late Sr. Barbara Connolly (Carmelite), and late Dorothy Stenstrom.
Jack was the beloved husband of Patricia (Kelley) Connolly for over 60 years, loving father to Jack Connolly (Jackie Richardson), Karen Wilson (Matthew), Michael Connolly (Lisa), Tricia Leslie (Robert), and Kevin Connolly (Danielle Paradis), adoring grandfather “Papa” to Meghan, Nicholle, Kathleen, Matthew, Andrew, Matthew, Michael, Madison, Maggie, Bridget, and Kevin, and proud great grandfather to Nathaniel, Raegan, and Rory.
Jack was born in Boston and raised in Savin Hill, where he graduated from South Boston High School. Known by many through his 60+ years in his career serving in many roles with the MBTA; as a bus driver, starter, inspector, and chief inspector, as a co-founder and the first President/Business Manager of the Local 600 --- the Starters and Inspectors Union, as Chairman of the Board on the MBTA Retirement Fund; and, a well-known driver for Yankee who drove teams from the NHL, NBA, MLB, and NFL.
Those who had the privilege of knowing Jack will forever remember him as a genuine and compassionate man, a master of storytelling and the guy who was friends with everyone. His presence will be deeply missed.
Family and friends are invited to join the family in the celebrating of Jack’s life and saying their final goodbyes. Visiting hours will be held Tuesday from 4-8 PM at the Blanchard Funeral Chapel, 666 Plymouth Street, Whitman. Final viewing will be held Wednesday 9:30 AM followed by a Funeral Mass, 10:30 AM at the Holy Ghost Church in Whitman.
In lieu of flowers, consider making a donation to Salvation Army