Rev. David Lee Connelly, former mayor and city commissioner of Leesburg, passed away on May 31 at the age of 81.

Rev. Connelly was known as a trailblazer and an innovative thinker. To many in the community he was a passionate, approachable pastor who consistently provided encouragement and support to those around him while advocating for young people to become all that God called them to be.

In 1986, Rev. Connelly made history as the first Black elected city commissioner in Leesburg. The achievement broke barriers and paved the way for future generations of men and women of color to serve in local government. He was known as a mediator and for his peaceful, thoughtful approach to resolving difficult situations.

In 1989, he became the city’s first Black mayor. In that groundbreaking role, he sought not power or recognition, but peaceful progress. He led with humility and a heart for service.

Rev. Connelly also served as the governor’s appointee to the ABLE Trust, which promotes employment opportunities for people with disabilities throughout Florida. He was also a member of the Florida Lemon Law Board, helping protect consumers who purchased new vehicles with significant mechanical defects.

Driven by a lifelong passion for understanding and uplifting others, Rev. Connelly attended Florida A&M University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology. After graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in the Army Reserve as a 2nd lieutenant.

He later attended the Columbia University School of Social Work in New York. After receiving his call to ministry, he enrolled in the International Theological Seminary in Plymouth, Florida, and completed numerous workshops and institute training programs that strengthened his ministry.

His commitment to public service also led him to become the first Black Operations Program Administrator for the Florida Department of Children and Families.

For 30 years, he championed the needs of the most vulnerable, working tirelessly to ensure families had access to support, protection and hope. In 1999, he retired to devote himself fully to his ministry.

Rev. Connelly accomplished much throughout his life, but above all, he was known as a man of God. He modeled what it meant to walk by faith and love, serving others with compassion, humility and grace. His leadership opened doors and paved the way for countless others.

“Our hearts ache, but we rejoice in the legacy he left for us,” the family says. “Your life has planted seeds of strength, courage, compassion and faith in each of us. We will carry everything he taught us forever. We will live our lives in a way that honors the handsome soul he was. We love and miss him so much.”