Gerry Connolly Death and Obituary – Gerry Connolly, a Democratic congressman from Virginia, passed away on May 21, 2025, at the age of 75 after a prolonged battle with esophageal cancer. He had been diagnosed with the disease in 2024, and despite undergoing extensive treatment, the cancer returned, leading to his decision to retire from Congress earlier this year.
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Connolly’s death marks the third loss for House Democrats in 2025, following the deaths of Representatives Sylvester Turner and Raúl Grijalva . His passing reduces the Democratic presence in the House to 212 members, with three Democratic seats currently vacant.
Born in Boston, Massachusetts, Connolly began his political career in the late 1970s as a staffer for the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee. He later served on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, where he played a pivotal role in extending the Metrorail Silver Line to Washington Dulles International Airport . Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2008, Connolly represented Virginia’s 11th Congressional District, encompassing much of Fairfax County. He was known for his advocacy for federal workers and his efforts to modernize federal information technology systems .
In April 2025, Connolly announced that he would not seek reelection in 2026 due to his health struggles. He also stepped down from his role as the top Democrat on the House Oversight and Accountability Committee . His decision to retire was met with an outpouring of support from colleagues and political leaders across Virginia and Washington, D.C. Senator Tim Kaine praised Connolly’s dedication to public service, stating, “No one has fought harder when it comes to Virginia’s federal workforce, transportation infrastructure, congressional oversight, and our commitment to critical alliances like NATO.
Connolly’s legacy is marked by his commitment to effective governance and his ability to bridge idealism with pragmatic action. He was recognized for his legislative effectiveness, earning accolades as one of the most effective lawmakers in Congress by the Center for Effective Lawmaking . His impact on Northern Virginia’s development, particularly in transportation and infrastructure, will be felt for generations.
Connolly is survived by his wife, Cathy, and daughter, Caitlin. His passing leaves a significant void in both his community and the broader political landscape. As the nation reflects on his contributions, his dedication to public service and his unwavering commitment to his constituents remain a testament to his enduring legacy.