George Ray Connolly

George Ray Connolly, 70, of Iola passed away June 5, 2017 at Allen County Regional Hospital. He was born May 28, 1947 in Fort Scott, Kansas. Ray was the first of five children born to George Dudley and Mary Ruth (Morehead) Connolly. He grew up in Fort Scott where he attended school, graduating from high school there. Following high school Ray worked as a C.N.A. in Kansas City, where he met Vicky Jones. Ray married Vicky and four children were born to this union. They later divorced. Ray married Eva Vanderpool of Pittsburg, one son, Donovan, was born to this union. They later divorced. Ray lived most of his life in Fort Scott and Pittsburg before moving to Iola in 2010. Ray married Marlene Robinson of Iola on January 1, 2012. Marlene preceded him in death on July 6, 2013. Ray enjoyed getting together and spending time with his family. He was a member of Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church, Fort Scott. His easygoing nature and sense of humor will be missed. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his wife, Marlene. He is survived by five children, Tammy Connolly (Robert Burton) of Iola, David Connolly of Iola, Mandy Connolly (Bill Stephens) of Iola, Justin Connolly of Iola, and Donovan Connolly of Pittsburg; eight grandchildren; and three sisters and one brother, Esther Lightwine and husband Robert of Emory, Texas, Helen Colwell and husband Sydney of Fort Scott, Carol Lytle and husband Allen of Blue Springs, Missouri, and Harold Connolly of Fort Scott. A private family service will be held prior to cremation. Condolences may be left at www.iolafuneral.com .