Frances Ann Rost McConnell, affectionally referred to as Nene by her grandchildren, passed away peacefully at the age of 89 in Port Charlotte, FL on Saturday, October 19, 2024.
Fran was born in McKeesport, PA on November 17, 1934, to parents Paul and Frances Rost. She was the youngest of their seven children. Growing up, Fran was very interested in fashion and planned to work at Gimbel’s in downtown Pittsburgh after graduating from the University of Miami where she was President of her Alpha Delta Pi sorority. However, Fran’s plan changed when shortly after graduation she met a handsome widower named Paul McConnell who was working in fashion in Miami. After a brief courtship, Fran married Paul in 1958 and became Mom to his four children. They had four more children of their own and soon they became a family of ten!
While Fran loved fashion, crossword puzzles and her children, her greatest love was for her husband, Paul. He was gregarious, funny, and kept her constantly entertained. Since his passing 18 years ago, she has missed him terribly. Thankfully, they are reunited and surely dancing to Dionne Warwick or The Carpenters while their daughter, Candy watches and giggles along.
Fran is preceded in death by her husband, Paul McConnell, her daughter Candy Robinson as well as her six siblings Paul, Bill, Bob, Betty, Dewayne, and Tom. She is survived by her children; Jane Hiatt (Jeff), Paul McConnell, Jr. (Carole), Jeff McConnell, Kathy Lloyd (Bob), Kirk McConnell (Linzi), Scott McConnell (Jill) and Kelly Legler (Lee); and 19 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren.
The family will hold a Celebration of Life in January 2025.
Friends may visit online at www.robersonfh.com to extend condolences to the family. Arrangements by Roberson Funeral Home & Crematory, Punta Gorda, FL.