Billy James Connolly, Sr. went to be with his Savior, Jesus, on April 3, 2026. At the time of his passing, he was married to Nancy Filinger of Delbarton, WV.

He was a decorated Vietnam War veteran and an active member of the Connolly Memorial Baptist Church.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 43 years Peggy (Nagy) Connolly; his father, Paul Connolly; his mother; Ottie (Connolly) Bryant; brothers, Leslie Connolly, Paul Monroe Connolly, and Arthur Ulysses Connolly; and a sister, Betty Jean (Connolly) Hackney.

He is survived by his brothers: Ron (Joann) Connolly, Rick (Ida) Connolly, and Rodney (Karen) Connolly; sister, Johnie Mae (Connolly) Eagler; and a sister-in-law, Sharon {Howard} Connolly.

He is survived by his children: Gary (April) Connolly, Joyce (Kerry) Kreider, Paul (Nanette) Connolly, Shirley (Connolly) Adams and Billy (Christina) Connolly; and seventeen-grandchildren, twenty-three great grandchildren, and many nephews and nieces.

A visitation will be held from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at Mud Fork Freewill Baptist Church.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at Mud Fork Freewill Baptist Church with Pastor Elbert Collins, Jr. and Pastor David McCloud officiating. Burial will follow in Highland Memory Gardens in Godby, WV with full military rites.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Collins Funeral Home, Inc. of Switzer, WV.