{Celebrating Betty}

My grandmother passed away on Sunday. Although I know she is in a better place, a place where she has no pain, a place where she knows who she is, I miss her. I've missed her for quite some time. These past few years, especially the past 6 months since she was in the nursery home, Alzheimer's took the Grandmother I know. So I've missed her for quite some time. I am so lucky to have grown up with her so present in my life and to be with her as she took her final breath.


Nov. 5, 1932 - March 1, 2009 Resident of Fremont Entered into rest on March 1, 2009 at the age of 76. Preceded in death by her late husband, Charles McConnell. Loving mother to Nancy Ancona and her husband, Michael, David McConnell and his wife, Beverly, Susan Lysak and her husband, Keith, and James McConnell. Cherished grandmother to Greg Fernandez, Krista Lund, April Bibbins, Kyle Ancona, Nicole Mamorno, Stephanie Sandoval, Curtiss McConnell, Jessica Jones, and Jakylin Jones. Devoted great-grandmother to Ashley, Tyler, Katelyn, Grace, Ethan, and Jacob. Dear sister to Samuel Smith and his wife, Betty, and the late Robert Smith and his wife, Rose. Born November 5, 1932 in Beanstation, TN, Betty was an antique collector and dealer and was a part of Whistle Stop Antiques in Sunol for 31 years. She always enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren. Betty was a waitress at Dino's Family Restaurant in Fremont. After her retirement she enjoyed dining at Dino's and visiting with her former customers. A memorial service will be held for Betty on Friday, March 6th, 2:30pm.