Obituary: John Joseph Connolly

John Joseph Connolly, 79, died June 16, 2026, surrounded by loved ones, following complications related to Alzheimer’s disease. Born Sept. 6, 1946, in Lawrence, Massachusetts, he was the son of Helen Harkins and Michael Connolly and was predeceased by both parents. He is survived by his wife of more than 50 years, Darlene MacKinnon; daughters Erin (Jon Liberman) and Kate (fiancé Dave Hodsdon); brother Michael (Kim) and sister MaryAnne (Stanley Burrell). He also leaves grandchildren Ben and Madeleine Liberman and numerous nieces and nephews. Connolly graduated from St. Francis Xavier University in 1969, later founded Connolly and Co. Timber Frame Homes and the Maine Barn Company, and built hundreds of timber frame structures across North America.