Jon William “Pops” Connelly, age 80 , passed away on Wednesday, November 26, 2025 at OhioHealth Shelby Hospital in the arms of his grandson.
Jon was born on September 28, 1945 to John “Jack” William & Joy M. (Stevens) Connelly. A 1963 graduate of Shelby Senior High School, Jon served in the United States Air Force stationed in Arizona and Alaska. Jon graduated from Mansfield Business College with an Associates Degree in Accounting.
On New Years Eve 1969, Jon met the love of his life, Ellen L. (Wise) Connelly, while she was tending bar at the American Legion in Shelby. They married at Trinity United Methodist Church on April 25, 1970. Jon worked for Tech Form in Shelby, and later retired from the Shipping and Receiving Department at Cole Tool & Die in Mansfield. Jon enjoyed fishing and was an avid bowler and golfer. Most of all he loved being with his grandchildren and great- grandchildren. Jon had served as the second vice commander of the Shelby American Legion, and as an auxiliary officer of the Shelby Police Department. He was a member of the Mt. Tabor Freewill Baptist Church in Galion, Ohio, and the First Presbyterian Church of Shelby, Ohio. Jon enjoyed long drives through the country with Ellen. Jon was lovingly referred to as, “Pops” by his coworkers and grandchildren, and “Poppy” by his great-grandchildren. He was the best grandpa and great-grandpa in the world.
Survivors include three children Susan (Jeff) McClain, Benjamin Connelly, and Jennifer Taylor. Six grandsons, James Robinson, Caleb Robinson, Eric Robinson, Bradley McHargue, William McClain and James McClain. Six great grandchildren, Aiden Robinson, Carson Robinson, Grayson Robinson, Emma Robinson, Deacon Robinson, Lainey Robinson; and one great granddaughter on the way, Raylynn Robinson. Numerous friends, and other relatives whom will miss him dearly.
In addition to his parents and in-laws he was preceded in death by his wife, whom he married on April 25, 1970, Ellen Louise Connelly, ten months prior in January of 2025. Jon will be laid to rest next to his 5 year old sister Sandra Sue Connelly who died in 1946 and 14 year old brother Jack Allen “Jackie” Connelly who died in 1957. He was also preceded in death by grandson Benjamin Alvin Jon Robinson and granddaughter Elizabeth McClain.
Friends and family may visit at the First Presbyterian Church at 24 North Gamble St. Shelby, Ohio 44875 on Tuesday, December 2, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. A funeral service will be held after at 11:00 AM with his grandson, Reverend James Robinson officiating. Immediately following services, the Richland County Joint Veterans will be honoring Jon’s dedicated service to the United States Air Force. Interment will then be held at Oakland Cemetery in Shelby.
Jon was passionate about giving to local charities, especially his church. Even when not in attendance, he would weekly donate to the Heating Fund at the First Presbyterian Church.
In honor of his generosity, in place of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the church at, PO Box 298, Shelby, OH 44875.
Barkdull Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to assist the family with arrangements.
Online condolences may be made at www.barkdullfuneralhome.com.
Funeral Home: Barkdull Funeral Home & Crematory
Website: www.barkdullfuneralhome.com