Linda L. McConnell

Linda Lee McConnell, age 79, of Shelbyville, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 29, 2026, surrounded by loved ones.

She was born on June 26, 1946, in Blue Diamond, Kentucky, to Lura and Leonard Hammond. Linda was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend whose love and kindness touched everyone who knew her.

Linda was known for her fierce compassion and unwavering love for her family. Her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were the center of her world, and she gave of herself endlessly to care for those she loved. She was strong-willed and determined—if Linda wanted something done, she would do it herself or find a way to make it happen. She was often stubborn in the best way, rarely wanting help for herself, yet always the first to step up for others. Her strength, independence, and selflessness defined her, and her presence will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know her.

She is survived by her loving husband, Jerry McConnell, with whom she shared 61 years of marriage and built a beautiful life together. She is also survived by her four siblings: Mike Hammond (Lee) of Georgetown, TX, Wanda Suey of Nashville, TN, Lois Blickem (Vance) of Vancouver, WA, and Tommy Hammond (Debbie) of Shelbyville, IL.

She is also survived by her four children, all of Shelbyville: Tracy Parker (Larry), Sean McConnell (Vonda), Scot McConnell (Laura), and Timothy McConnell (Dana).

Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Kelsey Collins (Brian); Payton McConnell (Debi); Madyson Bly (Cody); Luke McConnell (Samiha); Cree McConnell (Dakota); Gabrielle Pierce; Kya McConnell; Kayne McConnell; Kinley McConnell; and Ezra McConnell.

Her joy multiplied even further through her great-grandchildren: Hudson, Knox, Paisley, Ronin, Everett, Caysen, Dawson, Talula, Jayden, Charlee, Lennox, Aria, and Zaylen.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents, Lura and Leonard Hammond, and her siblings, Lavonne West, Jim Hammond, Bobby Hammond, Donnie Hammond, and Ronnie Hammond.

Linda found great comfort in her faith and is now at peace, reunited with loved ones who went before her. While she will be deeply missed, her family finds reassurance in knowing she is resting in the arms of the Lord.

Private family services will be held followed by burial in Glenwood Cemetery, Shelbyville, IL. Arrangements are by Howe and Yockey Funeral Home, Shelbyville, IL. Memorials may be given to the Autism and Movement Project (AAMP) in Pana, IL, and mailed to Howe and Yockey Funeral Home, 415 North Broadway, Shelbyville, IL 62565.

Send condolences at www.howeandyockey.com