Joseph A. McConnell, 59, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away, Monday, October 23, 2023, at Wabash General Hospital, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on March 1, 1964, in Evansville, Indiana, the son of Leon and Edna (Straw) Dardeen.

Joe loved his job as a truck driver. He would always bring his girls gifts and souvenirs from the places he had been. Joe was a true jokester. He loved to laugh and often gave his family and friends a hard time. He was an animal lover, and his dogs Violet, Zoey and Duke were very special to him. Joe loved his family dearly and especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. His family and friends will miss him dearly.

Joe leaves behind his four daughters, Rylee (Ian) Knowles, Taylor (Dawson Grisham) McConnell, Emily (Ramon Mullings) Curry, Kali (Chevy Bump) Curry; honorary daughter, Emily Tennes; grandchildren, Brayden Daniel Crane, DeSean Izzahia Knowles, Brynlee Jo Kaylyn Knowles, Kaenan Jeremiah Bump, NiKlaus Robert Colin Knowles, Mazikeen Sue-Ann Ray Knowles, O’Ryan Eugene Lee Grisham; sisters, Eula May Ingram, Linda Finwick, Sandy Stoneberger, and Mindy Wampler; several loved nieces and nephews.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Pamela K Whitehouse; brothers, Larry “Bucky” Hiter, Norman Ray Whitehouse, Lawrence Whitehouse, Robert Whitehouse and Ralph Whitehouse.

There will be no public visitation. A Memorial Service will begin at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, November 1, 2023, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with seating beginning at 10:30 A.M.

Memorial contributions may be made in Joe’s memory to Wabash County Animal Shelter Buddies. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home or may be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863.

Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements. To view Joe’s tribute wall, purchase flowers and leave condolences for his family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com