David Thomas Connolly, a member of the Austin music scene since 1999, left us on July 10, 2021 at the age of 63. He came to Austin from Texas following stints in Tennessee, Mississippi, and Minnesota. He performed with a number of bands including Wolfgang, Gone by Dawn, Outta Da Blue, and Dave and Matthew. David was a major influencer for Duchess Entertainment at the Water Tank where he did electric jams on Mondays and Sundays. On Thursdays, he played at the Texas Bar and Grill. He performed in many other Austin venues as well. He leaves a long list of musicians who loved him well.
In addition to his musical skills, David was an electronics expert. He was a web designer and host and could fix almost any computer regardless of what the amateur user had done to it. He designed and created electronic devices and was especially interested in building robots.
As if these accomplishments were not enough, he was a published author. He was an avid reader who kept up with political and social issues, and was well versed on hundreds of topics. He loved winter mountaineering and summited several peaks.
Personal characteristics that endeared him to people included a great sense of humor, generosity of spirit, compassion, and a loving heart. He survived cancer for 15 years. Despite numerous health crises and complications, he did not let them slow him down until the month before his death. He packed more living into 63 years than many do in 100.
David was born on December 1, 1957 in Joplin MO to Billy and Patricia Ann (Bayless) Connolly. His family later moved to Marion Arkansas. After the death of his beloved mother, he worked at various jobs including deck hand on the MS river before the love of music became the focus of his life. He is survived by the many people who were fortunate to share their lives with him.
A celebration of his life will take place from 6-8 pm on August 10 at the Water Tank Bar and Grill in Austin TX. Musicians are encouraged to bring their instruments. For additional information, please text Adrianne Linton at 210-232-0361. Updated postings will be on David’s facebook page.
