Robert Leith Connelly, Jr.

Robert Leith Connelly Jr., 73, of Connelly Springs, North Carolina passed away on December 28th, 2025. He was born on September 27th, 1952, at Grace Hospital in Morganton, North Carolina the son of Robert Leith Connelly and Miriam Dickinson Connelly. Robert is survived by his caring and gracious wife, Louise Connelly, of Connelly Springs, North Carolina.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 36 years, Deborah Crider Connelly. They were blessed with 6 children: Kristen Connelly Ellenburg (deceased) (Aaron); Mark Connelly (Rebecca); Marie Connelly de Palacios (Jose); Thomas Connelly; Rebekah Connelly Hodgson (Mark); and Amy Connelly Anstine (Evan).

Robert is also survived by three sisters: Dr. Daphne Connelly McKee Blumenthal (Dr. James A.) of Chapel Hill, North Carolina; Linda Connelly of Atlanta, Georgia; and Karen Connelly Rodriguez (Ivan) of Germantown, Tennessee. He graduated from Morganton High School and Wofford College in 1970 and 1975, respectively.

He was blessed with many grandchildren: Trey, Nathan, and Jacob Ellenburg; James, Josiah, Malachi, Isaiah, and Michael Connelly; Nayelyn, Alina, and Everly Palacios; Angel, Joel, Zoe, Luke, Micah, Zara, Jeremiah, David, Aliyah, Jude, Jason, and Levi Hodgson; and Nolan, Emma, Hannah, Asher, Ethan, and Madeline Anstine.

He also leaves a number of nieces of nephews.

Robert distinguished himself as an educator and entrepreneur, and throughout his life he was admired for his keen intellect, great wisdom, quick wit, and love of family. Above all else, he will be remembered for his passionate faith, fixing his eyes heavenward as he sought every opportunity to minister and witness for Christ. And while he will be deeply missed, his humble life of selfless devotion to the Lord will continue to shine. All who loved Robert, take comfort knowing that his voice is now added to the choir of angels.

There will be a private family service on Friday, January 2nd, 2026, at the St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Lenoir, North Carolina, followed by a private burial at Forest Hills Cemetery in Morganton, NC. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 328 B Woodsway Ln NW, Lenoir NC 28645