Andrew Grant Connolly

Andrew Grant Connolly, beloved son, brother, cousin, nephew, and precious light to all who knew him, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2026 at the age of 11 months.

Andrew was born on April 10, 2025, in Provo, Utah. Arriving three weeks early and with a birth diagnosis of Down syndrome, Andrew brought a unique and extraordinary spirit into the lives of his family. His brief life was filled with profound love, deep lessons, and a powerful impact on all who were blessed to know him.

Andrew’s life was medically complex. In addition to Down syndrome, he was later diagnosed with mitochondrial disease and courageously faced many health challenges during his time on earth. His life was a testament to quiet strength and the deep love that surrounded him. His journey included the skilled care of many dedicated healthcare providers who treated him with extraordinary compassion.

Despite the challenges he faced, Andrew jumped into every family adventure. Together, they made treasured memories, including a beach trip to San Diego, traveling through the majestic landscapes of Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, visiting the beautiful mountains of Montana, and cheering for the Cougars at BYU. Andrew was always right where he belonged – in the arms of his family and at the center of their lives.

Though Andrew’s time on earth was short, his life changed hearts and taught new perspectives. His family finds comfort in knowing he is now free from the burdens of disease and the many physical challenges he endured. Andrew was welcomed to heaven in the loving arms of our Savior, Jesus Christ. His family holds onto the promise of eternal families and reuniting with him after this life.

The family would like to express their gratitude to the Primary Children’s Hospital PICU doctors, specialists, nurses, respiratory therapists, social workers and staff members who lovingly cared for Andrew in his last few months of life. The family would also like to extend special thanks to the Ronald McDonald House Charities for their hospitality and support during Andrew’s hospital stays, as well as the individuals who lovingly donated and prepared meals and cookies in the hospital kitchen, which provided such comfort and refuge during an incredibly difficult time.

Andrew is survived by his loving parents, Richie and Natalie Connolly; his adoring siblings, Bowen, Josie, and Bennett; his grandparents, Jeff and Patty Shields and Dean and Joan Connolly; as well as a large extended family including 36 aunts and uncles, and 88 cousins who will forever cherish his memory.

His extraordinary life brought immeasurable blessings to his family. His extra chromosome truly brought “extra” into their lives: extra appointments, extra challenges, extra patience, and extra commitment - but also extra sweetness, extra joy, extra community, and above all, extra love.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at the Colonial Hills Ward Building, 1455 South 1700 East, Salt Lake City, Utah. A viewing will be held from 9am to 10:30am, followed by funeral services at 11:00am. Andrew will be laid to rest at Larkin Sunset Lawn Cemetery, 2350 East 1300 South, Salt Lake City, Utah.

March 21 is also World Down Syndrome Day [3/21, representing Trisomy 21]. In honor of Andrew and the Down syndrome community, guests are encouraged to wear blue and yellow clothing, or colorful/mismatched socks - a tradition to represent the uniqueness of individuals with Down syndrome.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites others to honor Andrew by reaching out to support a parent, caregiver or individual with a disability. Whether by following up on a previous offer of help or offering support for the first time, small acts of kindness can mean the world. The scriptures teach to be “willing to bear one another’s burdens, that they may be light… willing to mourn with those that mourn; yea, and comfort those that stand in need of comfort, and to stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things, and in all places that ye may be in”. A simple act of love - a visit, a meal, a message, or even a hug - can make a meaningful difference.