Robert Vincent Connolly Jr.

It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Robert Vincent Connolly Jr. on April 3, 2026, at the age of 82. He was an amazing father, grandfather, partner, brother, uncle, soldier, citizen, mentor, and friend whose kindness and strength touched everyone who knew him. Robert was predeceased by his father, Robert Vincent Connolly Sr.; his mother, Olive (Nichols) Connolly; his sister, Susan Connolly; his son, Ryan Connolly; his partner’s son, Edward Balcom; and his nephew, Robert Connolly. Robert leaves behind his devoted and loving partner, Rita Balcom; Rita’s daughters, Briana Balcom and Taryn Balcom (with Anthony Cormier); and Rita’s cherished grandchildren, Blake, Harper, Wyatt, Marley, and Parker. Robert leaves behind his cherished daughters, Jill Caraway and Kelly Pomatico, as well as three treasured grandchildren: Morgan Caraway, Dylan Caraway, and Rocco Pomatico. Robert is survived by his brother James Connolly (with Mary Ellen), nephews Robert Rigano (with Stacy) and John Connolly (with Karen Locke), nieces Chris McCarthy (with Gerald), Julie Connolly-Marek (with Ryan), and Colleen Connolly (with Steve Bossohe), as well as great-nieces and nephews Madison (with Ony Duru), Taylor, Myles, Bella, and Capri. Robert’s loving dogs, Polar Bear and Bernadette, will miss him dearly. Robert was born in New Rochelle, NY, on October 28, 1943. He grew up alongside his siblings, instilled with qualities like perseverance, integrity, and a passion for sports-particularly football. He was smart, funny, caring, kind, honest, and hard-working. In his early years, Robert was a three-sport high school standout in football, baseball, and gymnastics at Glassboro High School (GHS). He was class president and went on to play football at Trenton State. He cherished his GHS classmates and stayed connected with many of them. Robert studied computer science in the late 1960s and ultimately built a software and education company in Atlanta, GA, called Structured Solutions, which he sold in 1997. He was a gifted entrepreneur, a superb leader, and a teacher to many. Robert opted for early retirement to focus on personal pursuits. He obtained his pilot’s license and trained in aerobatics. Following the acquisition of his own aircraft, Robert and Rita frequently traveled across Florida, and he regularly provided family members and friends with sightseeing excursions. Robert was also the author of two books: “Boss Yourself Around,” a guide to starting a business, and “Red Martini,” a suspense novel. Robert's success in business enabled him to contribute meaningfully to his community. He provided mentorship to numerous small business owners and supported the operational continuity of a nonprofit organization serving disadvantaged youth. Robert consistently demonstrated concern for individuals facing adversity and hardship. In his enterprising spirit, Robert and Rita started a business called Tecoart, LLC, which took recycled computer parts and turned them into clocks. Google became their first customer, buying a significant number of clocks that were sent around the world as corporate awards. Health and fitness played a significant role throughout Robert's life, leading him to participate in numerous triathlons during his later years. He often ranked among the top three competitors in his age group, achieving several first-place finishes. Robert was an entrepreneur, innovator, artist, writer, and athlete. He loved Florida and Cape Cod and always enjoyed spending time with family and friends. Though he will be deeply missed, his memory, spirit, and inspiration continue to influence everyone who admired and cared for him. May Robert find everlasting peace as he joins those loved ones who have passed before him. In lieu of flowers, please donate in Rob's memory to a "No Kill Animal Shelter" of your choice.

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Robert Vincent Connolly Jr.

October 28, 1943 - April 3, 2026