Clyde Ray McConnell, 89, passed away on June 6, 2026. He was born on January 3, 1937, in a farmhouse in Bakersfield, Missouri, to Jewel and James “Floyd” McConnell. Clyde lived a life grounded in faith, family, and a deep dedication to his community and country.

On June 22, 1957, he married the love of his life, LaVila. Together they shared 65 wonderful years of marriage and raised three children. They were longtime residents of Capron, Illinois, and devoted members of Capron United Methodist Church. Clyde continued his commitment to faith and service throughout his life and was a longtime Freemason.

Clyde honorably served in the United States Army National Guard from 1956 to 1965. He was also a charter member of the Capron Rescue Squad. He was a longtime member of Boone Lake.

Clyde found great joy in the outdoors and was an avid fisherman and hunter. He was also a talented gardener who took pride in tending the garden for as long as he was able. He was a carpenter and even built his family’s home. Clyde worked for many years at Camcar and worked on tool and dye machine maintenance.

His life was a testament to hard work, service, and devotion to those he loved. He will be remembered for his steadfast faith, generous spirit, and the lasting impact he made on his family, friends, and community.

Clyde will be deeply missed. He is survived by his daughters, Mona (Tom) Olsen, Clarisa McConnell; Grandchildren, Thomas Olsen, Caleb (Denise) McConnell, Jessica Fulbright, Makayla (Michael) Elliott; great-grandchildren, Malaki, Mckenzie, Micha, Marilee, and Myles. He is also survived by numerous extended family members and friends he dearly loved.

He is welcomed into heaven by his wife, LaVila; son, Gary and daughter-in-law, Debra McConnell, his parents, Jewel and James “Floyd” McConnell, Father & Mother-in-law, Glen O. and May C. Malisch; brothers, John and Michael McConnell, as well as his sister, Mona-Ann Brown.

Private cremation and burial rites at Belvidere Cemetery have been accorded. There will be a celebration of life at the Belvidere American Legion located at 900 W Chrysler Dr, Belvidere, IL on Saturday, July 11. At 12:30 Military Honors will be conducted, with light refreshments and fellowship to follow from 1-3pm.