Raymond Connelly

Raymond Joseph Connelly, Jr., 76, died January 12, 2026, from complications related to Alzheimer's disease. He was born on July 28, 1949, to Raymond and Margaret (Sheehan) Connelly. Ray grew up in the Bronx, NY, in a devout Irish-Catholic family with his seven siblings. A lifelong New York Yankees fan, he carried that loyalty with him always.

Ray attended Iona College and began his career as a teacher with the Christian Brothers. After several years, he went into sales, a path that took him on adventures around the world. He later made his home with his first wife, Maureen, in Atlanta, GA, where he had two daughters and, through his children, developed a deep love for the game of soccer. He volunteered for more than 20 years as a coach, referee, and league administrator with Georgia Soccer and at the Paideia School, giving generously of his time to support young athletes and the broader community.

In his next chapter, Ray became an elementary school teacher of English as a Second Language. For two decades he served children from a wide variety of backgrounds, bringing dependability and steady encouragement to his classroom.

In retirement, he completed a master's degree in social work at the University of Georgia, living out his belief that it's never too late to reflect and grow. He was proud to be part of the Bulldog family.

A skilled amateur chef, Ray got his start behind the grill at Waffle House and was happiest when feeding others. He loved experimenting with new recipes and showed his affection for family and friends by preparing and sharing meals with them, which often included his perfect apple tart. He was also an avid reader, especially of Michael Connelly novels. Ray's long-term sobriety was one of his quietest and greatest accomplishments.

Ray will be deeply missed by his family and friends. The family is particularly grateful to Respite Care Atlanta for their loving care, support, and friendship, which brought him great comfort and joy.

Ray is survived by his wife and devoted partner of more than 30 years, Sharron Safriet; daughters Meghan Rhodes and Erin Cervino; daughters by marriage Christine Safriet and Sara Beth Safriet; grandchildren Emma Grace, Patrick and Reagan, and Mabel and Otis; and siblings Maureen Dowling, Thomas Connelly, Margaret Munch, Karen Burhmeister (Kasey Connelly), and Christopher Connelly. He was preceded in death by sisters Patricia Chirles and Regina Sullivan.

A wake will be held on Friday, January 23 from 4 pm to 7 pm. Services will be held on Saturday, January 24, at 1:30 pm at A.S. Turner & Sons Funeral Home in Decatur, GA. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Respite Care Atlanta (https://www.respitecareatlanta.org/) or to the Integrated Memory Care Clinic at Emory University (https://www.nursing.emory.edu/imc).