Geraldine Marie Bowen Connell, known to all as Gerry, passed away peacefully at the age of 86 on Sunday, September 29, 2013 in Newtown, Connecticut. Gerry was born in North Orwell, PA on November 1, 1926, to Clifford and Clara McCormick Bowen and was one of six children. Gerry and her beloved husband Jim raised four children, residing in North Orwell and subsequently in Endwell, NY.

Jim and Gerry always welcomed friends and family to the house for hamburgers and macaroni and cheese. She would also have a mincemeat pie in the freezer or a chocolate cake on the counter. Family vacations typically included a stay at a Howard Johnson’s motel and restaurant. Jim and Gerry loved to polka and square-dance with their many friends. She was an excellent organist and had the ability to play by ear. Gerry, who always had a strong work ethic, enjoyed working at Endicott-Johnson and Bates Troy. Gerry was also a top Tupperware salesperson and, as a result of her success, the family enjoyed attending their national meeting in Florida in the early 1970’s. Gerry also was active in the Cub Scouts, serving as a Den Mother in Pack 211.

Jim and Gerry subsequently moved to Charlotte, NC where Gerry became a NASCAR fan and spent many a Sunday cheering for Rusty Wallace. She made many new friends and greatly enjoyed working in the clothing department of Harris Hart where she was regularly requested by loyal customers for advice and assistance.

For the past eight years, Gerry received wonderful care from the dedicated and loving staff of Masonicare at Newtown. Gerry was predeceased by her parents, her husband of 45 years James Connell, her son Paul Connell, her sister Mary Bowen Raupers and brothers Art Bowen and Dick Bowen.

She is survived by her children Ceil Connell Watson and husband Randy of Charlotte, NC, Marie Connell Peterman of Hobart, NY and John Connell and wife Ellen of Bethel, CT; her daughter-in-law Kathy Sparks Connell of Augusta, GA; her nine grandchildren Nicholas Sliz, Mark Sliz, Carla Williams, Kristen Thomas, James Connell, Jacquelyn Visser, Jessica Connell, Jeffrey Connell and Cyle Connell; her four great-grandchildren Nicholas and Alex Sliz, and Ellen and Elaina Williams; her sisters Judy Bowen Horton and Alida Bowen Dean; and several nephews, nieces and cousins.

Rest in Peace Gerry Connell! We love you!

Contributions in Gerry’s honor may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association (alz.org).

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