Florence Carlson Connell

Florence Carlson Connell passed away peacefully surrounded by her children and grandchildren on February 8, 2019 at her home. Visitation will be held 10am-12noon on Wednesday, February 13 at St. Thomas More Church, 11822 Holmes Road, Kansas City, MO, followed by Mass of Christian burial at 12:00 p.m. Burial will be at Mt. Moriah Cemetery, Kansas City, MO.

Florence was born on September 6, 1920 near Luverne, MN to David and Hulda Carlson. She was preceded in death by her parents, her eight siblings, her grandson Thomas and her husband Jim who passed away in 2006. She is survived by her four children Elliot (Marty), Lee’s Summit, MO; Keith (Bonnie), Leawood, KS; Connie Fahey (Kevin), Leawood, KS; Kevin (Nancy), Leawood, KS; ten grandchildren and sixteen great grandchildren. The family wishes to thank her loving caregivers. In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions to Little Sisters of the Poor, Sisters, Servants of Mary or Community LINC. Memories may be shared at www.mcgilleystatelinechapel.com.

Mom was raised on a farm near Luverne, MN and grew up during the Great Depression. She developed a strong work ethic as a farmer’s daughter and passed this on to each of her four children. Florence married Jim Connell in October of 1947; this began a storybook romance that continued until Jim’s death. The couple truly cherished one another and taught their children the meaning of true love and commitment. Florence and Jim loved to entertain. They made everyone feel welcome in their home and they were always the life of the party. Their children’s friends became theirs and they enjoyed the love and laughter a full house brings.

Florence loved to golf and was especially proud of her hole in one. She was a member of the 18-holers at Blue Hills Country Club. Florence was an avid bridge player, but loved being with her friends most of all. She was a long time member of St. Thomas More Parish. She was fun and loved to laugh. She sang silly songs and made the best pot roast in town. Her door was always open to both friends and family and any hour was cocktail hour.

Florence taught those who had the pleasure to know her how to laugh loud and love big. She never missed an opportunity to spend time with those she loved. Her long life taught her family to cherish one another, to love one another and to never miss the opportunity to have a good time. We take comfort knowing that Mom and Dad are once again dancing together.