Thomas Joseph Connelly's Obituary
Though near or far
Unforgettable
That’s what you are
In Every Way…
Unforgettable
That's how you will stay
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Thomas Joseph Connelly on January 2 2025, after a long and fulfilling life. Tom was at his home in Syracuse surrounded by his loving family.
Tom was born on January 31, 1937, in Rawlins, WY, to Aucilia (Cele) Ramacier and Clifford Connelly. His journey through life was one marked by determination, warmth, and an enduring love for the people and world around him.
In 1997, Tom married Claudette Bennett, and together they blended their families into one full of love and laughter. Tom was a beloved father, husband, sibling, and coach, and he had many grandchildren and great-grandchildren whom he loved dearly.
Tom was a self-made man who achieved remarkable success through his resourcefulness, determination, and hard work. He proudly served in the military, where he earned an Excellence in Marksmanship award. After studying business administration and management, Tom went on to establish and operate Diamond T Development, a company dedicated to purchasing and developing properties. The company was named after his cherished Diamond T Ranch in Huntsville, Utah, which he also owned and managed. Tom made a meaningful impact on his community as the president of the Weber County Public Defenders Association. He enjoyed a long and distinguished 25-year career at Hill Air Force Base, where he rose from Section Chief to Branch Chief and finally, to Division Chief, earning his GS-14.
Tom’s life was a testament to his philosophy of “looking for the pony” — finding the positive in every situation. He approached life with the heart of an Italian, the spirit of a cowboy, and a genuine love for people. Known for his charisma and emotional openness, Tom had a rare gift for connecting with others. He possessed an irresistible charm, a feisty spirit, and a playful sense of humor that drew people to him. Tom took great pride in being someone others could rely on, finding joy in offering help and support. He always said that he loved people easily, and whether meeting a stranger in a store or welcoming someone new into his life, Tom would quickly build relationships that lasted a lifetime. A true "doer" and giver at heart, he was always busy fixing things, tackling projects, or offering a helping hand or a compassionate ear to anyone in need.
Tom found immense joy in the outdoors, sports, and music, and he passionately shared these loves with others. He enjoyed coaching softball and baseball, inspiring young players, many of whom were family members. Tom had a lifelong love for the Yankees and could often be seen wearing his signature Yankees hat. Music was a constant presence in his life, always filling the background. He loved sharing new songs and playing his favorites on endless repeat! Neil Diamond's music held a special place in his heart, a connection we will always associate with him. Tom cherished his houseboat at Lake Powell and his cabin in Island Park, Idaho, but what mattered most to him was the time spent there with family and friends. He often said he acquired these special places so his loved ones could gather and create lasting memories together.
Tom will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him, but his legacy of love and joy will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. His infectious positivity and the ability to see the good in every situation left a lasting impact on everyone he encountered.
Tom was, quite simply, unforgettable.
Tom is survived by his loving wife, Claudette, and their children: Cathy (Gary), Craig, Carin (Ray), Christy, Camie (Geri), Adam (Jenny), Brandy (Lance), Casey (Julia), and Darcee (Ron), as well as his brother, Rick Beyer.
A viewing will be held on January 10, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Premier Funeral Services, 5335 S 1950 W, Roy, UT 84067. Afterward, services will take place from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Syracuse City Cemetery, 1250 S 1000 W, Syracuse, UT.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Tom’s memory by spending time with loved ones in the great outdoors or simply by sharing a kind word with a stranger, as Tom so often did.
The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to Independent Home Health and Hospice, especially Jessie and Braden, for their unwavering support and exceptional care during Tom's final days.
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