Joseph Ralph Connolly, 92, formerly of Auburn, died Friday, October 18, 2013 at Beaumont Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing Center, Worcester.

     His wife, Shirley (Landry) Connolly, died in 1989. He leaves two nieces, Judith Nordberg of Worcester, and Joyce Vanderleeden of Longmeadow, MA; three nephews, Jeffrey Hilyard of Worcester, Joseph Hilyard of Milwaukee, WI, and John Hilyard of Pasadena, CA; many grand and great-grand nephews and nieces. His sister, Ruth M. Hilyard, predeceased him. He was born in Worcester, son of John P. and Louise M. (Henderson) Connolly. He graduated from the former West Boylston Street School and attended Worcester Boys’ Trade School.

     Mr. Connolly worked at the former Worcester Pressed Steel Company and at the former Rex Chainbelt Company in Auburn. He was a Coast Guard /Navy Veteran of World War II. He was a member of the Auburn Rod and Gun Club, enjoyed playing the organ all of his life, and was a drummer in the West Boylston Street Military Band in his youth. A kind and compassionate man, Ralph provided care and support over many years for his wife, his longtime companion Virginia, her sisters, and other friends.

     Burial will be private. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Beaumont Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing Center, 378 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605 or the American Diabetes Association, 10 Speen Street, 2nd Floor, Framingham, MA 01701. Rice Funeral Home, 300 Park Avenue, is directing arrangements.