Connie Smith — O’Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home

Connie Smith, 67, passed away peacefully at her home in Quincy, IL, on July 9, 2024, surrounded by her adoring family.

Born on September 30, 1956, to Clayton and Betty (Durbin) Jones, Connie’s life was a testament to the joy and warmth she brought to everyone she encountered.

She shared a beautiful life with her husband, Jeffery Smith, whom she married on April 29, 1978, in Quincy. Jeffery remains to honor her memory and continue her legacy of love.

The light of Connie’s life shone brightly through her two daughters, Tania Dittmer (Brad) of Quincy, and Ashley Holtschlag (Jonathan) of Fowler, IL. Her three grandchildren, Isaac Crane, Payton Dittmer, and Kyle Dittmer, brought her immeasurable joy and pride. Connie’s family circle included her caring brothers, Larry Jones (Karen) of Quincy, and Randy Jones of Keokuk, IA; her sister, Barb Specht (Roy) of Quincy; and her in-laws, Gerald and Darlene Smith, all of whom will miss her deeply.

Preceding Connie in death were her parents; her sister, Linda McNay; brother-in-law, Don McNay; close friends, Ronald Able and Dan Luber; and her niece, Jennifer McNay. They have now welcomed her with open arms into the next chapter of eternity.

Connie was a graduate of Quincy High School, where she laid the foundation for a life of service and community involvement. She began her career working at a daycare, nurturing young minds during the formative years of her daughters. Later, she continued her path of service as a school bus driver for Quincy Public Schools, ensuring the safety and well-being of countless children.

Her interests were as varied as they were passionate. Connie was an avid camper, often taking her family and their fifth wheel to explore the natural beauty of Mark Twain Lake and Wyaconda. Boating on the Mississippi River and Mark Twain Lake was another of her joys, as was cultivating a garden of flowers to adorn her deck. Connie’s culinary skills were a source of delight for her family, with pulled pork and enchiladas ranking as some of their favorite dishes.

Music from the 60s and 70s filled Connie’s home, with the tunes of Rod Stewart, CCR, Bob Seger, The Beatles, and her beloved Simon and Garfunkel providing the soundtrack to many happy gatherings. Her love for Simon and Garfunkel even inspired the names of her cherished cats. Connie’s outgoing nature made her the life of the party. She was always ready to play card games and extend a warm invitation with her signature phrase, “Y’all wanna play some cards?”, never missing an opportunity to bring people together.

Connie’s legacy is one of warmth and openness; she never knew a stranger and embraced life with a joy that was infectious. Her absence will be felt by all who had the pleasure of knowing her, but her spirit will continue to inspire those she left behind.

Friends and Family are invited to Connie’s Life Celebration at a visitation that will be Tuesday, July 16, 2024, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at O’Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home in Quincy, IL. A Memorial Service will follow at 11:00 am with Deacon Harry Cramer officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Quincy Humane Society or Shriners Children’s Hospital.

Online condolences may be shared and video tribute may be viewed at www.ODonnellCookson.com.