Matthew J. Connolly, (former proprietor of Connolly's Diner on Main St. in Charlestown) a 30 year resident of Clearwater, Florida and formerly of Roslindale, Dorchester and Charlestown, entered into eternal life on Saturday, September 14, 2013 at the North End Spaulding Rehabilitation Center Nursing Home in Boston following an extended illness. He was 79 years old.
Matt was born in Boston on December 31, 1933, a son of the late John Patrick Connolly and Mary (Callahan) Connolly. He grew up in Dorchester where he attended Boston Public Schools and graduated with 3 varsity letters in sports from Mount St. Charles Prepatory School. Matt began his career in food service at an early age and opened Connolly's Diner on Rutherford Avenue in Charlestown in the late 1950's before relocating to Main Street in Charlestown where he worked for over 20 years. Matt began working as a Dietician after many years of self-employment for food service companies dealing with nursing homes in the greater Boston area. He was a 32 year dedicated friend of Bill W. Matt adored his grandchildren and cherished the opputunity whenever he was able to attend any of their activities.
Matt is the devoted father of Thomas Connolly and his wife Kristen of South Boston, Laurel Anthony and her husband Paul of Stoneham, Daniel Murphy of Quincy and Janet Murphy of Quincy. He is the loving Papa to Devin, Kayla, Shealyn, Brendan, Erin, Mairi and Aiden. He is the beloved brother of Michael Connolly and his wife Carla of Quincy and the late Patricia Barry, Mary Quintiliani, Thomas, John "Buddy", George and Paul Connolly. He is the dear friend of Larry McDonnell of Norwell and the cousin of the late Tommy Burke. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend Matthew's Funeral on Thursday, September 19, 2013 at 10 A.M. from The Carr Funeral Home, 220 Bunker Hill St. Charlestown followed by his Funeral Mass in St. Mary's Church, 55 Warren St. Charlestown at 11 A.M. His burial will be private. Visiting hours will be on Wednesday, September 18, 2013 from 4 to 8 P.M. in the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, kindly make a memorial donation in Matthew's name to Hospice of The North Shore & Greater Boston, 75 Sylvan St. Suite B-102, Danvers, Mass. 01923.