William Rodney McConnell

William Rodney McConnell, 57, of Fairfax passed away on Tuesday, June 21, 2016. Bill was an Army Brat, born in Ft. Campbell, KY, March 16, 1959. Bill always loved the army and all things military. He served in the Virginia Army National Guard, attaining the rank of Specialist (E-4). He worked hard to complete his Associate's Degree from NVCC. Bill was also a big sports fan, and enjoyed following the local Washington area teams. He was an avid reader, particularly in subjects related to the military, nature, astronomy, foreign cultures, science fiction, and the supernatural. He was also a big fan of movies, and went out to see them with his friends whenever there was a new release, and amassed a large collection of some of his favorites. It was hard for Bill growing up coping with the effects of schizophrenia. More recently, he benefitted greatly from medication that helped him overcome his mental illness. He is survived by his mother, Ruth McConnell; his siblings, Robert McConnell, John McConnell and Elizabeth McConnell DeRosier. He was preceded in death by his father, Rodney David McConnell. A funeral service will be held at 10am on Friday, July 1 at Truro Anglican Church, 10520 Main Street, Fairfax, VA 22030. Burial will follow in Fairfax City Cemetery. Donations can be made to the Northwest Center Memorial Fund. Providing mental health services for adults and youth with mental illness in Western Fairfax County. Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board ATTN: Northwest Center Memorial Fund 12011 Government Center Parkway, Suite 836 Fairfax, VA 22035