Connie E. Cleary

Conzona "Connie" E. Cleary, 71, of Springfield, died at 10:40 p.m. on Thursday, March 22, 2012 at St. John's Hospital. Connie was born June 12, 1940 in Owensboro, KY, the daughter of George and Velma Hopkins Kelley. Connie was a 1958 graduate of Lanphier High School. She worked at Illinois Farmers Union as an Administrative Secretary for 36 years. She was a member of Sherman United Methodist Church since 1965 and belonged to the church choir. She was known for her beautiful voice and loved watching movies, traveling, spending time with friends and family, and flower gardening. She was preceded in death by her father, George Kelley. She is survived by her son, Sam (wife, Cathy) Wilkerson; two grandchildren, Cassidy Jo Dodd and Samantha Williams; great-granddaughter, Rylee Paige Dodd; great-grandson, Brayden Whittington; mother, Velma Kelley; and cousins, Sharon Bentley and Jerry Custer, as well as many others. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends. Cremation was accorded by Butler Cremation Tribute Center prior to ceremonies. Memorial Ceremony: 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 27, 2012 at Sherman United Methodist Church, 2336 E. Andrew Rd., Sherman, with Rev. Mike Pennell officiating. Inurnment will follow at Athens Hall's Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to: Sherman United Methodist Church Music Department, 2336 E. Andrew Rd., Sherman, IL 62684.