Francis “Skip” Connolly – 79, of North Reading and formerly of Wakefield, died unexpectedly at his home on Friday, March 18, 2016. He was the beloved husband of the late Sandra H. (Topping) Connolly.

Born in Melrose, MA on June 28, 1936. He was the son of the late John and Mabel A. (Carlin) Connolly. Skip was a U.S. Army Korean War and Vietnam Conflict Veteran, he was a Paratrooper and served for ten years.

He was a retired B.A.S.F. Mill Room Supervisor and he also worked for the Boston Stove Company in Reading.

Skip was has been a resident of North Reading for the past 44 years. He was a former member of the Loyal Order of Moose in North Reading, the Over The Hill Gang and was a former Treasurer of the Local AFLCIO. Skip was always steadfast and reliable.

Family members include his loving son, Michael F. Connolly (formerly of North Reading) and his wife Marisa of Burlington; his sister, Jean LeFavour of Wilmington; six grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

His funeral will be held at the Croswell Funeral Home, 19 Bow Street, North Reading on Tuesday, March 22 at 7 PM. Calling hours will be held prior to the service from 5 to 6:45 PM. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made in his memory to: Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675.