Janice McConnell

(From Greenfield Funeral Chapel)

Janice Theo McConnell, of Greenfield, MO, departed this life on Sunday, May 18, 2025, in Pleasant Hill, MO, at the home of her son, surrounded by family, at the age of 87.

She was born on April 2, 1938 in Greenfield, MO, to Thea and Ruthie (Winkle) Aleshire. Janice was united in marriage to Cletis McConnell in September of 1953 in Greenfield, MO, enjoying 70 years together before his passing. Together they owned and operated a portrait photography business and, later, an arcade and pool hall. Through the years, she worked as a seamstress at Dunbrooke, as a cook for Greenfield Schools, The Red Barn Restaurant, and Casey's, and she was a housekeeper for the Dade County Nursing Home.

Janice enjoyed many things in life, from traveling, seeing the mountains out west being a favorite, to being at home entertaining family and friends with a game of Pitch or Crazy 8, and endless hours playing games with kids. There was always food on the table for you, whether you were hungry or not. She was the most kind-hearted person, and her home was always open to family and friends.

She loved reading and word puzzles, and admiring trains and lighthouses, but her greatest joy came from family. Her complete dedication to her family was present with every thought and action, always putting them before herself. Hardly a week would go by without her attendance at a birthday party, wedding, baby shower, school event, or ball game, near and far, and she never considered a single moment to be a sacrifice. It was her greatest pleasure.

Her family has always felt her unwavering, unconditional support.

Preceding her in death were her parents, Thea and Ruthie Aleshire; her husband, Cletis McConnell; one daughter, Debbie Moore; one son, Jackie McConnell; and one grandchild, Dalton Edwards.

Survivors include one daughter, Sandy Edwards; one son, Brad McConnell; one sister, Beulah Vaughn; and thirty grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, May 23, 2025, at Greenfield Funeral Chapel. Burial will follow in Vaughn Cemetery. Family and friends are welcome to view and pay their respects Friday morning at 10:00 a.m. until service time at the funeral chapel. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Vaughn Cemetery, Ozarks Food Harvest, or to the donor’s choice. Services are under the care of Greenfield Funeral Chapel.