Ruth McConnell, born October 9, 1937, in Colchester, McDonough County, Illinois, passed away peacefully on February 26, 2026, at Ennis Pointe Senior Living Center in Ennis, Texas. She was the daughter of the late William and Emma (Harris) Welch and one of 12 children in a large, close-knit family of eight boys and four girls.
Ruth attended Good Hope High School and later married the love of her life, John W. McConnell Jr., with whom she shared many cherished years until his passing in 2012. Together, they raised two children, John (Leo) McConnell and Grace (Richard) Clark. Throughout her life, Ruth called several places home, including Colchester, Macomb, Maquon, and Knoxville, Illinois. In the past year, she resided in Ennis, Texas, where she was surrounded by friends and family.
Ruth was known for her unwavering devotion to her loved ones, always placing their needs above her own. Her home was filled with warmth, the scent of home-cooked meals, and the fruits of her labor from the garden. She loved gardening, canning vegetables, cooking, and bowling in her younger years. Ruth also shared a special bond with her beloved dog, Molly, who brought her comfort and companionship.
She is survived by her children, John (Leo) McConnell of Ennis, Texas, and Grace (Richard) Clark of Ennis, Texas; her brother, Charles (Jodi) Welch of Monmouth, Illinois; her sister, Neva Helton of Knoxville, Illinois; and several nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
She was preceded in death by her husband, John W. McConnell Jr.; her parents, William and Emma Welch; her brothers, Ora, Raymond, William Jr., Frank, Paul, Robert, and George Welch; and her sisters, Mabel Tromblee and Freida Shepler.
Visitation will be held Saturday, March 21, 2026 from 10 to 10:30 a.m. at Hurd-Hendricks Funeral Home, 120 E. Public Square, Knoxville, Illinois, with services beginning at 10:30 a.m. A graveside service at Maquon Cemetery will immediately follow. After the graveside service, the family invites friends to a celebration of life at Knoxville Bar & Grill, 310 E. Main St., Knoxville, Illinois.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Maquon Fire Department, 405 Main St., Maquon, IL 61458.
