Edward (Ed) Michael McElroy, of Bethel, Connecticut, affectionately known as Eddie, passed away peacefully on May 31, 2026, at the age of 65. He is survived by his beloved and devoted wife of 22 years, Fran. 

Born in Brooklyn, New York, Ed was the son of Cornelius and Anne McElroy and was raised in Massapequa on Long Island. He was predeceased by his beloved parents; sisters, Kathleen and Maureen; and his adored companion, Clifden.

He is also survived by his devoted sister, Patricia; his cherished nieces and nephews, Anne Marie, Gabrielle, Matthew, Lexi, Michael, Zachary, and Sammy; his great-niece, Aishie, and great-nephew, Joey; as well as many extended family members and lifelong friends, and his beloved Cavalier, Daisy. 

Ed lived a life filled with love, laughter, adventure, and lasting friendships. 

His career with British Airways fueled a lifelong passion for travel and introduced him to countless destinations around the world. Having spent a brief time working in Houston, he developed a love for Tex-Mex cuisine and an occasional Margarita. 

Although he visited many countries, he held a special love for Italy. He and Fran especially treasured their many visits to Italy, particularly Venice, where enjoying an Aperol Spritz beside the canals became a cherished tradition they carried with them for years and continued to enjoy until his passing. Ed also treasured trips to the Basilica of St. Anthony in Padua and the Vatican, where he had several medals blessed by Pope John Paul II and Pope Francis.

Proud of his Irish heritage, Ed held a lifelong love for Ireland, especially Clifden in Connemara, his mother’s hometown. Throughout the years, he made many memorable trips there, reconnecting with family, celebrating his roots, and enjoying music over a pint in the local pubs. The town held such a special place in their hearts that he and Fran named their beloved Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Clifden, in its honor. 

A devoted New York Giants and Grateful Dead fan, Ed embraced life with enthusiasm, humor, and a spirit of adventure. An avid reader, Ed’s intellectual curiosity and strong work ethic were matched only by his appreciation for great food, films, and music. 

Together, he and Fran shared a passion for travel, discovering new cultures, and creating lasting memories. He was deeply devoted to Fran, Clifden, and Daisy. Their Cavaliers were not simply pets; they were family. Clifden, their first Cavalier and cherished companion who held a very special place in both their hearts, shared countless adventures with Ed and Fran and was always by their side. Daisy later joined their family, and the bond between the two Cavaliers was extraordinary. Ed lovingly called her “Sweets” and cherished the trust she placed in him, often cradling her like a baby. Rarely seen without his Cavaliers by his side—often proudly pushing them in their stroller—Ed embraced every adventure as a family affair. 

Whether traveling, enjoying dinner at a favorite restaurant, or simply spending a quiet evening together, Ed found his greatest happiness sharing those moments with the ones he loved. His thoughtfulness and generosity were boundless. He never missed an anniversary or birthday, always celebrating them in a big way. 

Everyone who knew Ed appreciated his quick wit, sarcastic sense of humor, and the perfectly timed eye roll that never failed to make those around him smile. 

Humble, generous, and dependable, Ed greeted everyone he met with a big smile. He was always ready to lend a helping hand without expecting recognition. He quietly supported numerous charitable causes and was admired for his calm nature and genuine warmth. 

Even in death, Ed’s generosity continued. As an organ donor, he gave the extraordinary gift of life, a final act of compassion that reflected the way he lived. 

His final words to Fran, “I love you more,” beautifully reflected the depth of a love that defined their life together. 

Ed will be remembered for his kind heart, quick wit, generosity, quiet strength, unwavering loyalty, and boundless love for his family and friends. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the memories he created, and the love he shared so freely. May his memory be a comfort to all who loved him. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.

 A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, July 10, 2026, at 11:00 AM at St. Patrick Church, 169 Black Rock Turnpike, Redding, CT.

If you would like to leave the family words of condolence, please visit www.munsonloveterefuneralhome.com