Lena Mae McConnell

Lena Mae McConnell was born to Mildred and Manny Boyles on July 1, 1942, in Tamaroa, Illinois, and returned to the Lord on July 22, 2025.

We were blessed to have known and loved her for all of her 83 years. Lena will be deeply missed, and her memory forever cherished by all who felt the warmth of her presence.

Lena was a remarkable woman who led a full and meaningful life. In her early years, she worked as a legal secretary, and later held positions as a seamstress and waitress. An avid reader with an insatiable curiosity, she had a passion for crime television and solving complex puzzles.

Above all, Lena was a devoted mother and grandmother. Her wisdom, compassion, and unwavering love shaped the lives of her many grandchildren. Through her example, we witnessed true strength and resilience. She faced every challenge with grace and a smile, always ready to lend a helping hand.

Lena was preceded in death by her parents, Mildred and Manny Boyles; her brother, Wayne; her son, Phillip; her grandson, Jason; her great-granddaughter, Lillith; and her grandson-in-law, Joshua.

She is survived by: Daughter, Candra Sue of West Frankfort; Son-in-law, James Williamson of West Frankfort; Grandchildren: Jackie Barnes of Benton. Jessica McConnell and fiancé Ben Burkhamer of Zeigler, Jennifer and husband Collin Hebbeler of West Frankfort, Jamie Williamson and partner Cody Loman of Mt. Vernon, James and wife Kelsey Williamson of Benton, Joshua and wife Haley Williamson of West Frankfort, Jeremiah Williamson and partner Miranda Ellis of Benton, Bobbi Jo and husband Joshua Burgess of Baldwin, John McConnell of Ashley, Jerry McConnell of Ashley. Lena was also blessed with 18 great-grandchildren, whom she adored.

A Celebration of Life will be held on August 10th at 2:00 PM at Sabbath Baptist Church, located at 308 North Maple, Benton, Illinois.

“I do dimly perceive that whilst everything around me is ever changing, ever dying, there is underlying all that change a living power that is changeless, that holds all together, that creates, dissolves and recreates. That informing power of spirit is God."— Mahatma Gandhi

Ministry of Comfort Lovingly Entrusted to Southern Cremation and Burial Services of Murphysboro, Illinois.