Sally Connelly

Helen “Sally” Connelly, age 93, a long-time resident of Sayville, died peacefully on November 14, 2024. Sally was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who dedicated her life to her family. She spent many years working as an office assistant in the Sayville Public Schools system, ending her career in the high school’s guidance department. Throughout her tenure, she served as a union leader who helped negotiate contracts for the school system’s entire clerical staff. She is also a past president of the local Seniors Club.

Sally was the daughter of Helen (Neumann) and Raymond Jarman, and the younger sister of her brother Raymond (all deceased). She grew up in South Ozone Park, where she met her future husband and love of her life, James Connelly. When she moved to Holbrook at the age of 16, their budding romance continued. They were married on August 8, 1953, and settled in Sayville, raising five children throughout their 34-year marriage. Jim predeceased Sally in 1988.

Sally is survived by her children Patricia Saylor and her husband Merlin; Kathleen Attard and her husband John; James Connelly; Sally Slater and her husband Stephen; and Kerri Connelly. She was a beloved grandmother to Colleen, Sarah, Kelly, Shannon, Hannah, and Colin; and devoted “Gigi” to great-grandchildren Benjamin, Andrew, Aubrey, and Isla.

Family will receive visitors on Sunday, November 17th from 2:00 – 5:00 PM at Raynor & D’Andrea Funeral Home, 683 Montauk Hwy, Bayport. Funeral Mass will be celebrated Monday, November 18th at 10:00 a.m. at St. Lawrence RC Church, 240 W. Main St., Sayville. Interment will follow in the parish cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: North Shore Animal League, 25 Davis Ave., Port Washington, NY 11050.