Remembering Connolly
Connolly’s family released a statement honoring his life and service:
“It is with immense sadness that we share that our devoted and loving father, husband, brother, friend and public servant, Congressman Gerald E. Connolly, passed away peacefully at his home this morning surrounded by family,” a statement from his family read. “Gerry lived his life to give back to others and make our community better. He looked out for the disadvantaged and voiceless. He always stood up for what is right and just.”
U.S. Representative and Northern Virginia’s beloved, Gerald “Gerry” Connolly, a stalwart of Northern Virginia politics and a dedicated public servant, passed away on May 21, 2025, at the age of 75. He died peacefully at his home in Fairfax, surrounded by family, after a battle with esophageal cancer.
A Legacy of Public Service
Gerry Connolly’s political career began in 1995 with his election to the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, where he served as chairman from 2003 to 2009. During his chairmanship, he was instrumental in the transformation of Tysons Corner into a major business center and in obtaining funding for the Silver Line Metrorail extension to Dulles Airport. In 2008, Connolly was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives for Virginia’s 11th Congressional District. As a Congressman, he became a strong advocate for federal employees, supporting key legislation such as the 2010 Telework Enhancement Act and the 2014 Federal Information Technology Acquisition Reform Act (FITARA), which aimed to modernize federal IT systems. His career in public service extended over three decades.
Leadership and Advocacy
Gerry Connolly, who served on the House Oversight and Foreign Affairs Committees, was recognized for his focus on government accountability and innovation. He became the ranking member of the House Oversight Committee in 2024 and held this role until April 2025, when he stepped down due to a recurrence of his illness. Beyond his domestic work, Connolly was also involved in foreign policy, frequently speaking out against authoritarian regimes and supporting human rights.
Final Days
Born on March 30, 1950, in Boston, Massachusetts, Gerry Connolly earned degrees from Maryknoll College and Harvard University. In April 2025, citing health concerns, Connolly announced his decision not to seek re-election. He endorsed his former chief of staff, James Walkinshaw, as his successor. Connolly is survived by his wife, Cathy Smith, and their daughter, Caitlin.
His death is the third of a House Democrat in office this year, highlighting his significant impact on colleagues and constituents. Funeral arrangements and details about a special election to fill his congressional seat have yet to be announced.
Connolly’s enduring legacy is reflected in the infrastructure he helped build, the legislation he championed, and the countless lives he touched through his unwavering commitment to public service. Rest in peace, Gerry. You will be missed.
