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Paul James Connelly died peacefully at home on March 7, in Westbrook at the age of 78, with family by his side.

Paul is survived by his wife and best friend, Susan; his son James Connelly and his wife Michele; his daughter Aimee Ledas and her husband Darius; his cherished grandchildren, Riley Connelly, Jenna Ledas, Hailey Ledas, Mason Connelly, and Gavin Ledas; and his sister-in-law Barbara Connelly. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Stella Connelly; his brother Kenneth Connelly; and sister Christine Davitt.

Paul was born June 28, 1943, in Bronx, New York to James and Stella Connelly. He graduated from Central Connecticut State University with a double master’s degree. Paul was a dedicated community member focusing on emergency services within the town. He was an active member and past chief of the Westbrook Chemical Engine Company #1, chairman of the Town of Westbrook Board of Finance, a member of Saint Marks Roman Catholic Church, a founder and longtime member of Westbrook Ambulance Association, and was a constable for the Town of Westbrook and the Town of Clinton. In 2000, Paul retired as acting director of the State of Connecticut Department of Health for the Office of Emergency Services and as adjunct professor at New York Medical College. He spent his retirement years golfing and buying many golf clubs with hopes of a hole in one, traveling with his wife and friends, and enjoying his grandchildren.

Calling hours will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, March 10, at Robinson Wright & Weymer Funeral Home. A funeral is scheduled for Friday, March 11, at Saint Marks Roman Catholic Church, 222 McVeagh Road, Westbrook. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Westbrook Chemical Engine Company #1 and St. Jude Children’s Hospital. The family would like to thank Middlesex Health Palliative and Hospice Care for their care and support. To share a memory of Paul or send a condolence to his family, please visit www.rwwfh.com. Arrangements are in the care of the Robinson, Wright & Weymer Funeral Home in Centerbrook.