Michael Connell
Co-owner of Pub On the Drive

Michael Connell. Photo via Pub on the Drive, Facebook.

By John Hayden

Michael Connell, the owner of Pub On the Drive suffered a stroke in October but the news of his death in November still came as a surprise. Connell appeared to be making a full recovery, and was making plans.

The Pub said on social media, “We are at a loss for words and heartbroken. Our beloved Michael Connell passed away in his sleep unexpectedly. His close friends and family join us with tears of sadness & heartbreak but with such gratitude for having been able to share in his life. The amazing life of a great man whose legacy of love, compassion, humility, kindness & justice will leave those who knew him touched. Rest Easy Michael.”

Connell ran a very successful business in the heart of Wilton Manors. But he believed the Pub was a community entity, not just his. He supported drag entertainers through thick and thin, support that was even more important this last year as drag queens were under attack by Florida lawmakers.

The Hazelhurst, Georgia native and was married to James Walker. The two liked to spend summer in Chicago and warm winters in South Florida.

Walker posted a video after Connell’s death saying, “This morning the glorious miraculous sunrise is without Mike’s physical presence. The sunrise this morning is symbolic of the beautiful horizon he too sees on the other shore.”