Floyd Eugene (Gene) McConnell

The family of Floyd Eugene (Gene) McConnell is saddened to announce his passing on June 21, 2021 at his home in Billings. He was born May 11, 1930, in Republic, to Russell Eugene McConnell and Althea (Pearce) McConnell.
McConnell attended Wise Hill and Jones schools. He later attended and graduated from Republic High School in the class of 1948. After graduation, he joined the Marines and later served in the Korean War. He was awarded the Bronze Star for his bravery in a military conflict
in Korea.
He was discharged in June of 1952. At the time, he married Norma Sammons. To this union five boys were born. David Gene (who died at birth), Mark Stephen, Randall Lee (Brenda), John Thomas (Tammy), and Michael Dean (Vicki). He was blessed with 17 grandchildren, 17 great- grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren. He later joined the Mo. National Guard and retired with 22 years of service as Master Sargent in the 135th Army Band in May 1990.
McConnell also retired from the Missouri Dept. of Revenue as a supervising sales tax auditor where he worked for 24 years.
In December of 1982, McConnell was united in marriage to Phyllis Rauch. He acquired two step-children, Angela Ann Little (who preceded him in death) and Brian Lee Little.
He enjoyed playing jazz guitar and singing. He played with the Bill Frichette Trio for several years. In 2000, he started the Gene McConnell Band, playing for dances and special occasions.
He was a member of the Clever Methodist Church.
A memorial service will be at 11 a.m. July 2 at the Clever Methodist Church with Kirby Holbrook officiating. Burial will be at 2 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial Cemetery with military rights.