Betty Jean (Shea) McConnell

     Betty Jean McConnell, age 96 of Harrisburg, passed away at 1:00 AM on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at her daughter’s residence surrounded by her family.

     Betty was born on November 12, 1929 in Harrisburg, Illinois to the late Eugene and Stella (Potter) Shea.  On June 5, 1951 she married Maurice Kingsley McConnell and he preceded her in death on November 18, 2016.  In her younger years, Betty worked at Woolworths and helped on the farm until their retirement.  She was a member of Buena Vista Church, but most recently attended Little Chapel Church.  Betty enjoyed vegetable and flower gardening.  She loved being outdoors.  Betty drove tractors alongside Maurice.  She had a loving and giving spirit for her family.  Betty loved her grandchildren.  She enjoyed cooking and baking; particularly for Sundays and Holidays. 

     Betty is survived by her daughter, Sally Phipps and husband, Jeff of Harrisburg; son-in-law, Elvis Riley of Harrisburg; eight grandchildren, Emily Phipps of Harrisburg; Amy Mott and husband, Nick of Harrisburg; Matthew Phipps and wife, MJ of Harrisburg; Jerad Hernandez and wife, Connie of Harrisburg; Kari Catiller and husband, Derek of Galatia; Jason Douglas and wife, April of Paducah, Kentucky; David Riley of Harrisburg; Adam Riley and wife, Becky of Harrisburg; nine great grandchildren, Elise, Silas, and Sophia Mott; Chloe, Aiden and Briley Hernandez; Linley Ellet; Kaleb Riley and one on the way in October; and several nieces and nephews.

     In addition to her parents and husband, Maurice, Betty was preceded in death by two daughters, Linda Hernandez and husband Mike and Brenda Riley; great grandson, Ethan Hernandez; sister, Bernice Keneipp; sister, Kathyrn Ewell; sister, Pauline Small; and brother, Bill Shea.

     Funeral services for Betty Jean McConnell will be held at 1 PM on Friday, February 27, 2026 at Stricklin Funeral Home in Harrisburg.  Jeff Rush will officiate and burial will follow in Wolf Creek Cemetery.  Visitation will be held from 11 AM to 1 PM on Friday, February 27, 2026 at Stricklin Funeral Home in Harrisburg.  Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Southern Illinois and will be received at the funeral home.

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