Gladys Marie Connell

Gladys was born July 13, 1940 in Centreville, IL to Tony and Marcella (Chesley) Bequette. She married Reverend Robert A. Connell and he preceded her in death on February 4, 1998.

She was also preceded in death by her daughter, Deanna Stark; son, Robert Connell, Jr.; son-in-law, Scott Stegall; two brothers and two sisters.

Gladys is survived by her loving family, including her children, Denise “Shelly” Stegall of Granite City, IL, William Connell of Imperial, MO, Jeffrey (wife, Anastasia) Connell of Arnold, MO and James “Jim” (wife, Tracy) Connell of Imperial, MO; son-in-law, Mike Stark of Crestwood, IL; daughter-in-law, Joan Connell of Smithton, IL; 14 grandchildren, 35 great-grandchildren and 5 great-great-grandchildren; her sister, Betty (Robert) Greer of New Valmeyer, IL; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Gladys worked as a homemaker, devoted to her husband and six children. She was a pastor’s wife and was always a true friend and mother to many. Her faith was her foundation that led her through her beautiful & blessed life. Her loss leaves a void, but her family rests in the truth she is with her Lord forever.

A funeral service for Gladys will be held on Thursday, July 3, 2025 at 12:00 P.M. at Valhalla Gaerdner Holten Funeral Home, Belleville, IL.

A visitation will be held two hours prior to the service, from 10:00 A.M.-12:00 P.M. at the funeral home. Final interment will follow at Valhalla Gardens of Memory, Belleville, IL.