Elizabeth A. ‘Snooks’ Connelly

OLEAN — Elizabeth A. “Snooks” Connelly, longtime resident of West Oak Street, passed away Sunday (Oct. 4, 2026) at The Pines Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center in Olean. Liz had been residing at The Pines for the past year and a half.

Born July 6, 1938, in Olean, she was one of nine children born to Francis P. and Ann M. Cullather Connelly.

Liz was a lifelong resident of Olean and graduated from Olean High School in 1957.

In 1958 she began her career with the former New York Telephone Co., which later became ATT&T and then Verizon. She retired in 1990.

She was a longtime member of St. John’s Church in Olean. Additionally, she was a past member of the former St. Pacificus Church in Humphrey and St. Bonaventure Church in Allegany.

Liz was a member of the Telephone Pioneers of America. She was also a member of and former director of the Third Order of St. Francis. A few years ago, she had been honored by the Buffalo Diocese with the annual St. Joseph’s Worker’s Award.

She was a dedicated, long-time member of the Cattaraugus County Democratic Committee. As a lifetime season ticket holder for St. Bonaventure men’s basketball, she attended games back to the 1950s, with games at Butler Gym and The Armory. She made many trips to New York City for Bonnies NIT games.

She leaves behind three sisters, Anne Connelly Angora, Maureen (Edwin) Negron and Kathleen Connelly, all of Olean; three sisters-in-law, Linda Connelly, Diana Connelly and Darlene Connelly, all of Olean; and many beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

She was preceded in death by five brothers, Patrick (Patricia) Connelly, Francis Connelly, Joseph (Patty) Connelly, James Connelly and Paul Connelly.

The family will received friends from 9 to 11 a.m. Wednesday (Oct. 7, 2026) at St. Bonaventure Church, Allegany. A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11 a.m. at the church. Fr. Gregory Jakubowicz, OFM will be the celebrant. Burial will follow in St. Bonaventure Cemetery.

The family would like to thank Dr. Matt and staff,  Total Senior Care, Eden Heights and The Pines of Olean for their love and care for Liz.

Memorials may be made to The Warming House, C/O St. Bonaventure University Ministries, St. Bonaventure, NY 14778; or to the Cattaraugus County SPCA Building Fund, 2944 Olean Hinsdale Road, Olean, NY 14760.