Gloria Connell
Alton | Save
Gloria M. (Early) Connell, age 89, of Alton, Illinois, passed away peacefully on May 21, 2026, at 8:53 p.m.
Born on October 19, 1936, in Granite City, Illinois, Gloria was the daughter of William and Lenora Early.
Gloria was the devoted wife of 68 years to Richard E. Connell, who survives her. She was the loving mother of Patricia A. (Connell) Sosa and her husband Joe, Andrew K. Connell and his wife Kim, and Timothy P. Connell and his wife Pam.
Her greatest joy was her family, especially her cherished granddaughters Casey Hansen, Cari Hansen, and Chelsea (Connell) Bittrich and her husband Marc, along with her beloved great-granddaughters Raylee and Braelynne Bittrich. Gloria also held a special fondness for the dogs her grandchildren brought into the family, finding comfort and companionship in their presence.
A graduate of St. Joseph’s School of Nursing in 1957, Gloria dedicated her life to caring for others. She worked as an office nurse and later in a long-term care facility, where her compassion and steady presence touched countless lives. In her final days, she was embraced by the caring community at The Alton Rehab in Alton, Illinois, a place she deeply appreciated.
Gloria was preceded in death by her parents, William and Lenora Early, her sister Carole Orr, and her brother Patrick Early.
She will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her love of gardening, and the warmth she brought to every gathering.
At the family’s request, visitation will be private, followed by cremation. Gent Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Additional information and online guestbook may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com.
Gent Funeral Home
