Patricia Anne (Soccio) Connolly, 74, passed away peacefully on May 16, 2026, in Paris, France. Born on October 31, 1951, in Troy, New York, Patricia lived a life filled with love, joy, and passion for education and family.

Patricia earned her Bachelor of Arts in Education from SUNY Plattsburgh in 1973. She devoted her career to teaching English, inspiring countless students at Knickerbocker Junior High School in Lansingburgh, NY, and Acadia Middle School in the Shenendehowa School District in Clifton Park, NY. Her commitment to education extended beyond New York as she also served as a substitute teacher in Kearney, Nebraska. Patricia’s love for language and imaginative approach to instruction left an indelible mark on her students and colleagues alike.

Patricia shared fifty wonderful years of marriage with her beloved husband, Kevin Connolly of Wake Forest, NC. Together they built a loving family that includes their two sons: David Connolly of Washington, DC, and Brian Connolly of Cohoes, NY. Patricia’s unconditional love for her family was obvious to everyone she met. She is also survived by her brother Anthony Soccio of Saratoga Springs and several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her parents, Angeline (DeBonis) Soccio and Anthony A. Soccio. Memories of her close-knit Italian family and her many loving relatives remained close to Patricia’s heart throughout her life.

Beyond her professional achievements and devotion to family, Patricia found joy in playing golf, home decor, cooking and exploring history. She was a talented athlete: in addition to achieving the rank of black belt in Taekwondo, she was the 2009 Ladies Club Champion at Kearney Country Club, much to her husband’s chagrin. Pat cherished dining out with loved ones and friends, often regaling them with stories of her golfing triumphs and mishaps as well as anecdotes from her long and loving marriage. She also enjoyed traveling with her husband and close friends, visiting Ireland, Italy, Hawaii, France, the UK and several U.S. National Parks in recent years. Known for both her quick wit and compassion, Patricia had a wonderful ability to connect with others through her radiant smile, kindness and approachable sense of humor.

Patricia will be deeply missed by those whose lives she touched. Her legacy of love and dedication will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.

May Patricia’s memory bring comfort to those who mourn her passing.

The family will hold a Celebration of Life in Wake Forest at a date yet to be determined.