Connie Lee West, age 77, of Flora, Illinois, and formerly of Olney, passed away Tuesday morning, April 30, 2024, at her home.

      She was born December 28, 1946, in Washington, Indiana, the daughter of Robert Gene and Marjorie Ruth (Eaton) Burr.  She was united in marriage to Johnny Richard Bennett on April 23, 1969, and he preceded her in death on May 30, 1995.  She was later united in marriage to Jim West on February 25, 2000, and he preceded her in death on June 1, 2000.

      Connie worked at the Embarras River Basin Agency (ERBA) in Olney for 35 years, retiring as the Director of the Richland County Senior Citizens Center.  She enjoyed sewing, knitting, crocheting, embroidery, and counted cross stitch.  Connie and her sister Ellen operated a shop in Noble called the Wishin’ Nook which sold unique handmade crafts.  She enjoyed gardening, canning, and spending time with her kids and grandkids, and she especially treasured the happiness she found in recent years.  She truly loved time spent with her family.

      She loved animals, especially cats and her “granddogs.”  She was a past member of the Olney VFW and Daughters of the American Revolution.  Connie was of the Christian faith, and had attended Elm Street Christian Church and enjoyed sharing the gift of music and gospel while singing with the Grace Notes.

      She is survived by her children: Todd (Pam) Bennett of Xenia and Johnna Wagner of Flora; 6 grandchildren: Vanessa Lynn (Patrick) Thomas, Mariah Nicole Bennett, Jacob Robert Bennett, Jessica Rose (Cotey) Wilken, Iesha Joy (Hudson) Brewer, and John Christian Peters; 13 great-grandchildren; 2 sisters: Lisa (Roger) Marks of Noble and Amy (Rex) Woods of Newton; special friend: Ray Cook of Flora; and nieces and nephews.

      She was preceded in death by her parents; both husbands; and a sister: Ellen Cook.

      A private graveside ceremony will be held with interment in Noble Cemetery.  Arrangements are by Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora.  Memorial donations are suggested to the Alzheimer’s Association or Richland County Senior Citizens Center, and these will be accepted through the funeral home.  To share a condolence or memory, visit: www.frankandbright.com