John Reilly Obituary

John Patrick Reilly
May 26, 2025
John P. Reilly, age 83, of Stratford, beloved husband of Judith (Gomperts) Reilly, passed away on Monday, May 26, 2025, in his home, surrounded by his loving family. John was born May 24, 1942, in Bridgeport, CT, son of the late Joseph A. and Emily (Kekac) Reilly and was a lifetime area resident. John graduated from Harding High School class of 1961 and attended a year of college before returning home to work in Remington Arms as a machinist and then follow his calling and becoming a Bridgeport firefighter. John proudly worked his way through the ranks and eventually retired as captain. He made a big impact in all the roles he worked and lives he touched earning the moniker "Big John" not just for his physical appearance. In addition to his wife Judy who was the love of his life, John is survived by his two cherished children Christopher (Sandra) Reilly Sr. and Patricia (Ronald) Wallace, both of Naugatuck; six grandchildren Samantha (John) Daikus of Litchfield, Danielle (Craig) Grosso of Wethersfield, Ronnie Wallace of Waterbury, Christopher Reilly Jr. (Julia Wojtczak)of Naugatuck, Lianne Wallace of Waterbury and Emily Wallace of Naugatuck; three great-grandchildren Gavin Grosso, Caden Grosso and Miles Daikus; two brothers James (Janet) Reilly and Michael (Charlene) Reilly; one sister-in-law Rosemary Reilly; one brother-in-law George Gomperts and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, John was predeceased by his siblings Joseph (Lorraine) Reilly Jr., Timothy Reilly, Carol (Anthony) Dota and sister-in-law Barbara Gomperts. Friends and family are invited to attend a Funeral Mass of Christian Burial on Monday, June 2, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. by meeting directly at Our Lady of Grace Church, 497 Second Hill Lane, Stratford, CT. Interment will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 1056 Daniels Farm Road, Trumbull, CT. Friends and family are invited to pay their respects on Sunday, June 1, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the William R. McDonald Funeral Home, 2591 Main Street, Stratford, CT 06615. Donations in John's memory may be made to St Jude Children's Hospital (www.stjude.org) or any charity that speaks to your heart in John's honor. John lived a selfless life, one that was led by his faith, kindness, generosity, compassion, and great sense of humor, and will be missed and loved forever. For additional information or to share a message of condolence, visit www.wrmcdonaldfuneralhome.com.