Phyllis Laney Connell

Mrs. Phyllis Laney Connell, age 83, of Marion, NC, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, April 17, 2026, with her loving family gathered around her. She was born on May 2, 1942, in Knoxville, TN, to Loren Molly Laney and Wilma Ashe Laney, both of whom preceded her in death. Phyllis attended Bethel Baptist Church, and retired from Baxter – North Cove in 2005 after 33 years, choosing to devote her time to caring for her parents in their later years.

When her father returned from World War II, the Laney family settled in Marion, NC. It was there that Phyllis grew up and, thanks to her late mother and her late brother Tyson, met the love of her life, “Dub” – whom she loved and cherished throughout her life.

Phyllis’ heart was fullest when she was serving as a wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt. Her faith in God and her devotion to her family were the centerpieces of her life, and she never hesitated to share how much she loved both. Though her presence will be missed beyond measure, her faithfulness, kindness, and love live on in the lives she touched. Today, she is reunited in Heaven with many she has longed to see again.

Phyllis was welcomed into heaven by those waiting there for her including her late husband of 54 years Ray Wesley “Dub” Connell Jr., her parents, Wilma and Loren Laney, her brother Tyson Laney, and her grandson, Caydon McKinney.

Phyllis’ memory will be cherished by those who survive her, including her three children: Joel Connell, husband to Robin of Sevierville; Melissa Connell McKinney, wife to Mark of Marion; and Matt Connell, husband to Richele of Boone. She is also remembered by her six grandsons — Jordan McKinney (Taylor Westmoreland), Coleton McKinney (Amber), Dylan Connell (Meredith), Blaine Connell, Zaden Connell, and Coye Connell — who affectionately knew her as “Moo‑Moo.” She leaves behind two sisters, Denise Beam (Dennis) and Ruthie Laney, along with a host of nieces and nephews too numerous to count.

A celebration of her life will be held on Monday April 20th, 2026 at the Zion Hill Baptist Church Cemetery, 1036 Zion Hill Church Road, Marion NC 28752, at 2:00 PM with the Reverend Roger Hayley officiating. Interment will follow immediately after.

Memorials may be made in Phyllis’ honor to Bethel Baptist Church 350 Bethel Baptist Church Rd., Marion NC 28752, or VIA Health Partners – Hospice and Palliative Care www.viahp.org, 101 Lenoir Street, Morganton NC 28655.