James M. Connolly , 81 longtime resident of Newton, formerly of Brighton passed away on Wednesday, December 5, 2018, surrounded by his family. Jim is survived by his loving wife Peg (Farry) Connolly and their children James (Michael) and Pam Connolly of Plymouth, Maura and Steve Montgomery of Dedham, Kristin and Gary Espenhain of Plainville, Kara and Jim Sweeney of Billerica, and his grandchildren Annie, Hasina, Katie, Rahim, Maggie, Zarina, Mitch and Jordan. Jim is also survived by his siblings Janet Connolly, Pat & Bev Connolly, David and Kathy Connolly, and Rosemary and Maurice Quirke. Jim enjoyed reading, gardening, puzzle books, cowboy movies and looked forward to Saturdays when his youngest granddaughter would bring him donuts. Jim loved holidays especially Christmas when he spent many hours setting up his Christmas villages. Family and friends will gather in Sacred Heart Church, 1325 Centre St., Newton Centre, MA for a Funeral Mass, Saturday, December 15, at 10:30 AM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to New England Center and Home for Veterans, http://nechv.org/