Carolyn “Gran” Pendleton Connors, 88, of Mt. Carmel, IL, passed away January 14, 2023, at Oakview Nursing and Rehabilitation in Mt. Carmel, IL. She was surrounded by her loving family when she went to meet Jesus.
Carolyn was born December 29, 1934, in Beggs, OK, the daughter of Raymond and Wilma Greer Pendleton. She married Dr. John Connors in 1972 and assisted with his chiropractic office until they retired.
Carolyn’s life was characterized by her loving and caring personality. Everyone she met has a story of how Carolyn made them feel extra special. Carolyn devoted her life to her family and friends, volunteering at church and in the community, caring for patients, and providing customer service for Patriot Motors. Carolyn was a member of Keensburg Christian Church. Carolyn will be remembered for her amazing cooking skills, the many celebrations she planned and hosted, fantastic holiday traditions, sense of humor, and flashy outfits. She lived life to its fullest and is a great example to all who knew her.
She is survived by five children: Dana Hampton and husband Dennis of Salem, IL; Jerry Hocking and wife Ellen of Browns, IL; Mike Connors of Mt. Carmel, IL; Pat Moore and husband Les of Mt. Carmel, IL; and Dr. Steve Connors and wife Rose of Swansea, IL. Ten grandchildren survive: Amanda Hampton, Rebecca Martorello and husband Matt, Jeremy Hocking and wife Alyssa, Jesse Hocking and wife Laura, Jonathan Davis, Zed Moore and wife Amber, Julie Merritt and husband Mike, Josh Moore and wife Jamie, David Connors, and Julie Connors. Also surviving are great-grandchildren: Matthew Martorello, Vincent Martorello, Thomas Martorello, Peyton Hocking, Thayer Hocking, Sawyer Hocking, Ryker Hocking, Roxas Hocking, Axle Hocking, Zane Davis, Zeme Moore, Zedrick Moore, Jaden Merritt, Madi Merritt, and Carli Merritt. Other survivors include sisters and brothers-in-law: Maxine and Sam Parris of Branson, MO, and Debra and Richard Cato of Portland, OR; and special friends Mariette Accord and Linda Spencer. Carolyn has a host of beloved cousins, nieces, and nephews who cherish her memory.
Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Dr. John Connors; great-grandchildren: Samuel Patrick Moore and Angel Baby Hocking; a sister and brother-in-law, Kathryn and Jay Jackson; and a dear family friend, Lola Seals.
A visitation will be held Saturday, January 21, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at Keensburg Christian Church a with memorial service immediately following at 1:00 p.m. A burial will be held at a later date at the Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, MO.
Memorials may be made to Keensburg Christian Church or Residential Hospice of Southern Illinois.
Online condolences may be made at www.short-cunninghamfh.com.
Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve Carolyn’s family.
