Deborah S. McConnell
April 17, 1954 - May 15, 2014
Obituary
MADISON - Deborah S. McConnell, age 60, passed away on Thursday May 15, 2014 after a life long battle with the disease of alcoholism. She was born on April 17, 1954 in Louisiana. She was the eldest daughter of Robert and Sally McConnell, the first of 12 siblings.
Deborah worked for several years as a paralegal at the State Department of Health and Human Services. She participated in the life of her community, and lived each day with a sense of purpose and joy. Deborah was extensively involved and committed to the work and support of local AA, particularly the Early Risers group on the east side of Madison. She was supported immeasurably by her sponsor Jane through her long battle with addiction.
Deborah was a truly gifted artist and brilliant human being. Her passion for social justice, fairness, her love of beauty and truth were hallmarks of her daily life. Many of her family members have her paintings, her visions of the beauty of the world, gracing their homes. Deborah had a deep love for all animals, and her dog Kitsune saw her through many difficult times. She always believed that being a parent to her son, Quinn Alexander, was the most important role in her life. Quinn, a gifted artist in his own right, carries on her work. Her smile and talents will be sorely missed.
Deborah is survived by her son, Quinn; mother, Sally; siblings, Cat (Karen), Kim (Joe), Tim (Michele), Tom (Jennifer), Jim (Kate), Matt (Di), Mary (Rick), Shawn (Myron), Josh (Kate) and Rob (Tracy); and our large, extended, loving family. She was preceded in death by her father, Robert; her grandparents, Irvin and Lenore Larson and Kenneth and Mary McConnell; her aunts, Gail Toerpe, Lynn Trinitapoli and Marilyn Genz; uncle, Calvin Genz: her sister, Pamela; and her beloved partner, Perry Johnson.
A celebration of Deborah’s life will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Dr., Madison, at 4 p.m., on Monday, May 19, 2014. Visitation will be at the funeral home from 3 p.m. until the time of service on Monday.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Dane County Humane Society.
Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com
Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608)221-5420
Events
Visitation
Mon May 19, 2014 @ 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM CDT
Gunderson Funeral and Cremation Care - Madison • 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, WI 53716
Service
Mon May 19, 2014 @ 4:00 PM - 4:30 PM CDT
Gunderson Funeral and Cremation Care - Madison • 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, WI 53716
Photos
Memories
G
Guest
Other •
Old photos of Deb from California
+ 5
NO
Nefarious O'Snap
Other •
Cat, I am so sorry. My sisters are in many ways my most deepfelt connection in my family, and I am deeply empathizing with your loss. I am so happy you had one another in all the times you lived.
KM
Kat Mustachia
Other •
From Lea with eternal love.
NS
Nancy Bryant Sefton
Other •
Cat...(and family); My deepest sympathy. I am in shock and deep grief for this was so unexpected! Thank you Chris for letting me know. I know how close you and Deb were Cat. My love to you. I will keep you in my prayers.
NS
Nancy Bryant Sefton
Other •
I remember what a joyful funny loving woman she was. When I was pregnant and living with her she would go out and buy cereal and eggs galore because I craved them. I'd taken a dislike of the smell of cooked sausage...she would cook it while I was gone, boil cinnamon water to get rid of the smell and then nuke them when I was asleep (night shift worker). My heart hurts...I'll think of her warmth and caring for always!.
GD
Gabrielle Daniels
Other •
Being one of the "younger cousins," I was always awed by Deborah's beauty and vivacity. I remember her wonderful laugh. May she find the peace and love she longed for and so deserves. My heart is with all who loved her and tried to support and be there for her.