Delbert Owen McConnell, 81, of Fort Smith passed away on March 13, 2021 peacefully at his home. He was born on December 24, 1939 in the Cornish Community, which is now Fort Chaffee, Arkansas. Delbert retired from First National Bank of Fort Smith after 48 years. He served in the 188th Wing Air National Guard for 12 years.
He was preceded in death by parents, Willie and Faye McConnell of Greenwood, a brother, Clifton (Barbara) McConnell and two sisters, Ruth Stanton (Bob) Wallraven and Helen (Pete) Keyes. He is survived by wife of 56 years, Peggy McConnell; daughters and sons in law, Lisa and Daniel Barnes of Russellville and Jennifer and Dewayne McAlister of Fort Smith; granddaughters, Olivia and London Barnes of Russellville and his beloved dog, Ozzie. He is also survived by nephews, Chris (Debbie) McConnell of Bella Vista and Steve (Margie) Stanton of California and numerous cousins and great nieces and nephews.
Delbert was an avid St. Louis Cardinals and Razorback fan. He enjoyed golfing, softball and bowling over the years. Most recently, he got joy from traveling to his granddaughters sporting events and dance performances.
The family would like to pay special thanks to a dear family friend, Danna Putnam and the caregivers from Heart of Hospice, Bonnie Dale and Mary Maguire.
Funeral service will be 10 a.m., Wednesday, March 17 a Cornerstone Free Will Baptist Church, 895 Ray Fine Blvd. in Roland, Oklahoma under the direction of McConnell Funeral Home of Greenwood. Viewing will be Tuesday from 1 – 7 p.m. at the funeral home, where the family will visit with friends from 5 – 7 p.m. The family respectfully asks that masks be worn and social distancing take place when possible.
Pallbearers will be Lloyd Cardwell, Lonnie Hurt, Tom McMellon, Mearl Pearcy, Jim Philpot and Larry Reed.
Memorial contributions may be made to Cornerstone Free Will Baptist Church or Heart of Hospice, 1401 S. Waldron Rd. Suite 201, Fort Smith, AR 72903.
