James A. Connolly passed away on February 17th, in Hope, NJ. He was 89 years old. A lifelong resident of New Jersey, James was born in Orange to James and Julia (O’Connor) Connolly. His family moved to Ireland for a short time but returned to the States.
James was a lineman for Bell Telephone for 17 years and upon retirement opened Newton Glass Shop in Newton, NJ. After selling his glass shop, he did various other construction jobs.
James was a proud veteran and bravely served our country during the Korean War stationed in Japan 1952 – 1955 and transferred to the Reserves, as a member of the U.S. Marines from until 1960.
He loved the ocean, and fishing while vacationing in Maine. James enjoyed the outdoors, hunting and horseback riding. He had a knack for animals especially horses and dogs and was labeled “the animal whisperer”.
He is survived by his former wife and longtime friend Margarita “Peg” Burke; daughters: Carol Kleindienst and husband Richard; Kerry Connolly and significant other Paul Lenard; sons: Sean; Bart and significant other Trish Walks; Robert and former wife Linda; Brian and significant other Melissa Perna; and Michael and wife Barbara; his grandchildren: Kyle and significant other Emily Hofmann and Ryan Kleindienst and his dog Murdoch; Keegan and Patrick Connolly; and Corin Connolly-Drake and husband Andrew; granddaughter in-law Devon Kleindienst; great-grandchildren: Max, Logan, Kaiden and Asher; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is predeceased by his sister Catherine, grandson Shane Kleindienst, and great-granddaughter Shailee Connolly-Drake.
A memorial visitation will be held on April 8, 2022, at Newbaker Funeral Home, 200 Rt. 94. A memorial service for immediate family will be on April 9, 2022, at Newbaker Funeral Home followed by inurnment and military honors at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in East Hanover, NJ.
In lieu of flowers please give to the VFW or your favorite charity and smile for he has lived. You will be greatly missed Papa Smurf.