Obituary of James M Connell

James Martin Connell, 73, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 15th, with his devoted wife, Sally Connell, by his side. Born on February 8, 1951, in Montclair, New Jersey, James was the youngest child of the late Raymond and Kathryn Connell. James was raised in Montclair and graduated Essex Catholic High School in Newark and distinguished himself as a standout wrestler and golfer. James pursued higher education at Providence College, where he not only obtained his degree in business, but also formed lifelong friendships.

James was a devoted Husband, married to his beloved wife Sally for 24 years. He was also a committed father to his son, James Patrick, never missing a wrestling match or football game. James loved hunting trips with good friends and enjoyed fishing at the Jersey Shore with his family. He was an avid golfer, as a member of the Essex Fells Country Club for 41 years. James was also involved in charitable endeavors including the State Police Memorial Association Golf Tournament, the Catholic Education Fund Golf Tournament and as the treasurer of the St. Patrick’s Guard of Honor luncheon.

James began his career as a photographer for National School Studios. He then became a manufacturer’s representative and co-founded McMahon and Connell Associates with his close friend, Teck McMahon, forming a successful business that lasted for over 40 years
 

James is survived by his wife, Sally, and his son, James, daughter-in-law, Jen, his stepdaughter, Jacquelyne, and granddaughter, Scarlett, his brothers, Raymond and William, and his sisters, Eileen, Diane and Kathy. He is also survived by his former wife, Patricia.

The wake will be held on February 21, 2024 from 3:00pm to 7:00pm at the Hugh M. Moriarty Funeral Home in Montclair. The Funeral Mass will take place on February 22, 2024 at 10:30am at Immaculate Conception Church in Montclair.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests donations be made in memory of James, to the Connell Family Scholarship to the attention of Providence College, Alumni Development Office.