Eugene Reilly

Prospect – Eugene J. “Gene” Reilly age 69, of Prospect passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday August 13, 2025, at Bristol Hospital surrounded by his family. He was the husband of Susan E. (Boisvert) Reilly.

Gene was born in Waterbury on September 14th, 1955 son of the late Eugene J. and Theresa (Reilly) Bean.

Driven by his love of motorcycles, Gene built a career mastering the craft he enjoyed most. He was a highly skilled and confident master mechanic who was widely known and admired for his encyclopedic knowledge of diverse motorcycle brands and models, and who was also adept at tackling the most challenging and unusual repair issues. He began his career at Cycle Salvage in New Haven before becoming Service Manager at Willows Motorsports in Cheshire, where he worked for many years until his retirement. He also held positions at Lock, Stock and Barrel in Bethany and Land and Sea Motorsports in Waterbury and was a member of the Meriden Rod and Gun Club.

Gene could diagnose and fix the most complex machinery with ease, but he was also a gardening and culinary enthusiast who enjoyed classic cars and well- prepared food. He was small in stature but larger than life in character. He was a warm, kind and gentle soul with a charming, captivating, and engaging personality. His unwavering love for his animals was surpassed only by his love for his family and friends. He will be affectionately remembered for his uplifting spirit, quick wit, perseverance, and strength in the face of adversity. Life will be vastly different without his presence, but his essence will remain deeply rooted in our hearts and minds forever.

Mr. Reilly is survived by his wife, Susan, his daughter Ericka Corbett of Waterbury, his grandchildren Raina and Maylea Kemper of Naugatuck and his sisters Marian Reilly of Newmarket, New Hampshire and Sharon Reilly and her husband Doug Lavine of Norwich. He also leaves behind his brother-in-law Armand Boisvert and his wife Janet of Cheshire, his niece Aimee Boisvert of Middletown and a host of beloved cousins and dear friends.

Gene’s family will receive relatives and friends on Saturday September 6, 2025 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Community Funeral Home 72 Waterbury Road (Next to the Post Office) in Prospect. A celebration of Gene’s Life will be held immediately following at 12 p.m. at the funeral home. His burial will be at the convenience of the family.

Memorial contributions in Gene’s name may be made to St. Jude’s .org or by mail to 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105