CENTRAL FALLS

Donald E. Connolly, 85, of Central Falls, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at Rhode Island Hospital in Providence.

Above all else in his life, Donald was devoted to his beloved wife, the late Rose (Barriere) Connolly. Married for 55 years, their marriage was a rare and enduring partnership built on love, loyalty, faith, and mutual devotion. They were truly one another's anchor, sharing a bond that family and friends admired deeply and hoped to emulate in their own lives. Even after Rose's passing, the love they shared remained a guiding presence in Donald's life.

Born in Pawtucket, RI, he was the son of the late George L. and Eunice M. (Ratcliffe) Connolly.  He resided in Central Falls for most of his life.

Following high school, Donald proudly served his country as a Vietnam War veteran in the United States Air Force for more than 20 years, retiring with the rank of Master Sergeant. During his military career he served as an Administrative Superintendent and earned numerous commendations and service medals, including the Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Force Good Conduct Medal, and Vietnam Service Medal. He was also a graduate of the United States Air Force Senior NCO Academy.

Mr. Connolly was employed as a communications engineer for WSBE-TV Channel 36 for 26 years, until his retirement in 2007.

Donald lived a life rooted in faith, service, and routine. He was an active member of Holy Spirit Parish in Central Falls and remained deeply connected to his community throughout his life. He served on the City of Central Falls Purchasing Board, was a proud member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 1228, and held a longtime interest in communications technology as a licensed FCC General Radiotelephone Operator.

He also enjoyed the outdoors, target shooting, and time spent with fellow members of the Cumberland Beagle Club. Known for his discipline and strong work ethic, Donald valued staying active and maintaining the routines and independence that meant so much to him. Even into his later years, he could be found at the MacColl Field YMCA most mornings before sunrise, faithfully keeping the workout routine he rarely missed.

He leaves his sisters-in-law, Judith Barriere of Burrillville, Rhode Island, and Rita Barriere of Rehoboth, Massachusetts; and his beloved nieces and nephews, Michael and Marybeth Barriere of Middleburg, Florida, Mark and Bridget Barriere of Scottsdale, Arizona, Steven and Erin Barriere of Cumberland, Rhode Island, Dawn Barriere of Sebring, Florida, and David and Kathleen Barriere of Rehoboth, Massachusetts, along with many great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family members, and friends who loved him dearly.

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to Donald's Life Celebration to be held with Visitation on Thursday, June 4, 2026 from 5 PM to 7 PM and continue on Friday, June 5, 2026 at 10:00 AM in the J. J. Duffy Funeral Home, 757 Mendon Road, Rt. 122, Cumberland.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM in the St. John Vianney Church, Diamond Hill Road, Cumberland. Burial with military honors will follow at Resurrection Cemetery, West Wrentham Road, Cumberland.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Donald's memory may be made to Camp Ker-Anna, 500 Reservoir Road, Cumberland, RI 02864.

ONLINE MEMORIAL: jjduffyfuneralhome.com