Robert Lewis Connelley

Robert Lewis ‘Bob’ Connelley of Hardy, VA passed away peacefully at home on December 10, 2023. Beloved husband of Joan Wright. Bob was born in Pittsburgh, PA on July 22, 1945 to the late Wanda (Miller) and Russell K. Connelley.

Bob joined the U.S. Navy after high school and served in Guam and on the USS Enterprise during the Vietnam War. After his discharge, Bob had a distinguished career with the Central Intelligence Agency where he held various positions until his retirement. During his tenure at the CIA, Bob lived in New Dehli, India; Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; and LaPaz, Bolivia, and traveled to 30+ countries. After working for a few private firms, Bob retired full-time at his cabin on the Lost River in Wardensville, WV, where his passions were photography and travel. In recent years, he resided full-time at Smith Mountain Lake, Hardy, VA.

In addition to travel, Bob loved photography, fishing and casino gambling … all of which he did well and with gusto. He lived a life that was full and always ‘did it his way.’ Bob will be sorely missed.

Bob was predeceased by his cherished younger brother, Chris; and leaves behind his daughter, Denise Cleveland and sons Jay (Gloria) and Sean (Katie); four grandchildren (Lauren Ramos-Puente (Cristobal), Morgan Gannon (Kyle), Eli Cleveland and Lili Connelley); three greatgrandchildren; brothers, Russell (Linda) and Edwin (Lynne); dear sister-in-law, Tammy; and nephew, Casey; four nieces and their children; many cousins and dear friends; and his Cavalier King Charles spaniels, Ricky and Haley.

Bob's wife would like to thank all of the wonderful doctors and care givers who took such good care of him.

Flora Funeral Service and Cremation Center, Rocky Mount/Smith Mountain Lake, VA is handling arrangements. Bob’s ashes will be scattered in the Lost River at his WVA cabin in the spring/summer.

Contributions in Bob's memory may be made to Cavalier Rescue USA, c/o Carolyn Stigler, 6400 N. Paseo Tamayo, Tucson, AZ 85750, or a charity of your choice.