d. January 18, 2024
Carol Ann Connell, beloved wife of Jerry Connell, died on January 18, 2024, at age 86. The Connells lived in the Morningside Menger Springs Community in Boerne. Carol, born in Chicago, Illinois, was the oldest child of the late Harry and Helen Bailey.
Carol spent much of her youth in Los Angeles, California, and eventually made her way to Minneapolis, Minnesota. She earned a nursing degree from The Northwestern Hospital School of Nursing. In 1970, Carol moved to San Antonio with her first husband and 5 children. She began the next chapter of her life by marrying Jerry in 1990.
Carol and Jerry were enthusiastic RV travelers. They trekked to nearly every U.S. state, including Alaska. After reaching a new destination, Carol would always announce that it was “one of her favorite places.”
Carol was also an avid reader and golfer; she also loved singing and danc-ing. Her preferred activity, however, was playing cards or board games with family and friends. People would underestimate Carol’s competitiveness and skills to their detriment. Despite the vigorous play, the games always included endless shared laughs.
Besides love for her family, her enduring faith in God was Carol’s foundation. She lived a joyful life and enriched the journey of all who knew her. She will be missed.
Carol is survived by her husband Jerry Connell and siblings Shirley Olson, Janet Hora, Gloria Reichling, Karen Larsen, Norman Bailey, and Jane Meeks. Her treasured blended family includes children Cherie Benson, Sandy Brantley (Chris), Bob Benson (Nancy), Eric Benson (Laura), Mark Benson; JeriLea Stevens (Gary) and Tom Connell (Laurie); 7 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.
For those wishing to honor Carol’s memory, in appreciation of Carol’s faith, the family suggests performing an act of kindness or making a gift to someone in need.