Philip Gerard Connolly

Philip Connolly, born in Garden City, New York and a 25 year resident of Danville, California passed on March 12th in Walnut Creek, Ca. Phil lived a life defined by service—to God, his family, country, community, and the many people whose lives he touched through mentorship, leadership, and friendship.

Phil was a proud graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point, Class of 1982. After commissioning in the United States Army, he served his country with distinction as an Army Ranger and retired with the rank of Captain. His commitment to the ideals of West Point and the bonds of its community remained a central part of his life long after his active-duty service. For more than two decades, he continued to serve his classmates and West Point as Treasurer of his Class, demonstrating the same dedication and sense of duty that marked his military career.

Following his service in the Army, Phil built a successful 30 year career as an investment banker and chief financial officer. His last role at time of passing was CFO at Vu Technologies. He guided many companies both large and small to successful results through his leadership and operational and financial expertise. Colleagues respected him not only for his professionalism but also for his integrity and steady judgment.

Outside of his professional life, Phil devoted extraordinary time and energy to community service, particularly through the sport he loved most—lacrosse. A passionate advocate for the game and for youth athletics, Phil helped grow and strengthen lacrosse throughout Northern California, being one of the founders of Scorpion lacrosse in Danville. He dedicated almost 20 years of his life serving as Chairman of the Games Committee and as a Board Member for U.S. Lacrosse. Additionally, as a board member and president of Northern California Junior Lacrosse he played a pivotal role in expanding opportunities for young athletes across the region. In recognition of his lasting impact on the sport and its community, Phil was inducted into the Northern California Lacrosse Hall of Fame in 2019.

Phil also remained deeply committed to supporting fellow veterans. He served as a member of the management board for Vets Boats, an organization dedicated to assisting retired combat veterans. Phil was heavily involved in the local American Legion as well as a Knight of The Order of St John.

A man of strong faith, Phil was a devoted congregant of St. Isidore Catholic Church, where he found strength, community, and spiritual grounding throughout his life. Above all, Phil was a devoted husband and father. He is survived by his beloved wife, Lizabeth, and their two sons, Christian and Jared who were the pride and joy of his life. He is also survived by his mother, Margaret Connolly, and siblings, Pamela Minetti, Jerome Connolly Jr, Barbara Keady, James Connolly and their families.

Phil will be remembered for his quiet strength, his sense of humor, his deep sense of duty, and the countless ways he served others—whether in uniform, in the community, or as a mentor to young athletes and fellow veterans. He had a warm, friendly nature, and was always eager to connect with everyone he met. His legacy of leadership, generosity, and service will endure in the many lives he helped shape.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Wreaths Across America in Phil’s memory. https://donate.wreathsacrossamerica.org/general-donation-to-wreaths-acrossamerica/

Memorial Service to be held at St Johns Church 11am EST, 4/21/26 1986 Post Rd, Darien Ct

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