With broken hearts, we announce the passing of Denis James Reilly, who left this world unexpectedly on June 15, 2025, the evening of Father's Day weekend. He was 84 years old.

Born in New Haven, Connecticut, on January 28, 1941, Denis was raised in West Haven and graduated from Notre Dame High School in 1958. He went on to attend the University of Connecticut, remaining proud of his roots and his strong Irish Catholic faith throughout his life.

In 1961, Denis enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving honorably until 1967. He was deeply proud of his military service and carried his patriotism throughout his life, exemplifying the values of loyalty, courage, and commitment. A true American patriot, Denis always stood for what mattered most — faith, family, and country.

On October 25, 1969, Denis married the love of his life, Jane Mulqueen, and together they built a beautiful life in Connecticut, where they designed and lived in their dream home and raised two daughters: Ellen Reilly Vaughan and Kathleen Reilly Kirk (Brian). His devotion to his family was the defining joy of his life.

Denis was a passionate and entrepreneurial businessman. He owned and operated Jade Auto Sales in Old Saybrook, Connecticut, before relocating his business—and his family—to South Florida in 1992. Wherever he went, Denis was known for his magnetic personality, sharp wit, and boundless gift for storytelling.

A man of strong community spirit, Denis served as President of the Friends of Mill Pond in Ivoryton, Connecticut. Following the devastating flood of 1982, Denis led the fundraising and advocacy efforts that helped restore the dam and preserve Mill Pond's beauty and accessibility for future generations. His leadership had a lasting impact on the community he so dearly loved.

He also served several terms on the Board of Directors for his South Florida community of Woodlake in Delray Beach, always bringing wisdom, fairness, and good humor to his neighbors.

An avid fisherman, Denis found deep peace on the water—whether boating in the Florida Keys or casting a line off Great Point in Nantucket. He also loved nature walks and observing wildlife in the Florida Everglades, where he found quiet joy in the beauty of the natural world. He was a lifelong Red Sox fan and a loyal supporter of Florida Atlantic University athletics. He had a special way of lighting up a room and making people feel at ease with his humor and heart.

He was predeceased by his father, George Reilly, and his mother, Mary Ryan Porter, and is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Jane, his daughters Ellen and Kathleen, his son-in-law Brian, his cherished granddaughter Lauren Reilly Vaughan, and his sister Georgette Reilly Curay. He also leaves behind many loving brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

A man of faith, Denis was a devoted Catholic and a daily example of integrity, generosity, and devotion. He adored Golden Retrievers, especially those who sat faithfully by his side and spending days at the park. Denis cherished family traditions, holiday gatherings, and a good story told with a sparkle in his eye.

He will be remembered for his unshakable love, his deep kindness, and the laughter he brought to every room he entered.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at 10:30am at St. Vincent Ferrer Catholic Church, 840 George Bush Blvd, Delray Beach, FL 33483. Burial Services with Military Honors will follow at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Cemetery, 10941 Southern Blvd, Royal Palm Beach, FL 33411. CLICK HERE TO WATCH FUNERAL MASS