Jim McConnell, Sr.

James “Jim” Andrew McConnell, Sr.,86, beloved husband of Laurel “Sue” McConnell, passed away on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, at Richard Campbell Veterans Home where he was for several years. Born in Greenville, SC, he was a son of the late Evelyn Wingard McConnell and the late William “Ralph” McConnell who raised him in West Greenville. Jim was a graduate of Parker High School and of Baptist faith. He served his country in the United States Navy aboard the USS Odax Submarine.

After Jim was honorably discharged from service, he worked as an engineer for Burroughs Corporation for twenty years. He then worked as the Director of Fleet Management for the Georgia Department of Corrections, and then retired to Easley.

Jim was an avid Clemson football fan and enjoyed restoring older hot rods to some state of completion around the house or garage. He coached little league sports and was active as a mason and Hejaz Shriner. His favorite treats were Hershey's chocolate, Pepsi, and cigars.

Most importantly during his life, he loved his family and spending quality time with his grandchildren who adoringly called him, “Poppy”.

 He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years; sons, James “Jimmy” Andrew McConnell, Jr. (Jeannette) and Russell “Rusty” William McConnell (Mary); sister, Mary McCollum; brother, Gary McConnell (Phyllis); grandchildren, Maggie Phillips (Keels), Sam McConnell (Daelyn), Rusty McConnell (McKenna), Tommy McConnell (Asia), and Leigha Trayhan (Colby) and great-grandchildren, Bear, Hazel, Silas, River, Noah, Logan, Noah, Charley, Brayden, and Caden.

Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by a brother, Bill McConnell.

The family will receive friends from 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM on Friday, December 13, 2024, at Robinson Funeral Home—Powdersville Road. Military rites will be performed briefly at 5:00 PM. After the visitation, an informal Celebration of Life will be held in the receiving room from 5:30 PM to 6:00 PM. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Richard Campbell Veterans Home at 4605 Belton Hwy, Anderson, SC 29621 in memory of Mr. McConnell.

Let us celebrate a generous and selfless spirit whose legacy will continue through the ones who knew and loved him.

Visit RobinsonFuneralHomes.com or Robinson Funeral Home & Crematory – Powdersville Road, Easley.