Tributes

Jennifer Celeste McConnell, 63, passed away on April 24, 2026, at her home in Modesto, California, after a two-year battle with throat cancer. She was born on July 20, 1962, in Merced, California, to George Bailey and Barbara Delores (Jones) Hale. On her seventh birthday, she watched the first man walk on the moon on her family’s black-and-white television. Jennifer graduated from Merced High School with the Class of 1980, where she participated in gymnastics and cross-country. She later earned a master’s degree in education through studies at the University of the Pacific and Portland State University. She devoted 23 years to teaching, including special education and third grade, and also worked as a substitute teacher. Later in life, Jennifer worked for a financial investment firm and the Stanislaus County Housing Authority. She was preceded in death by her beloved older sister, Deborah Joan Robertson, and by her parents, Barbara Delores and George Bailey Hale. She is survived by her husband, Douglas Neal McConnell; her siblings, Steven Richard Hale and Susan Denise Weston; her children, Gabrielle Granillo and Madeline Schmidke; and her stepchildren, Jesse McCusker and Ryan McConnell. She was a proud grandmother to Lily and Kailey McCusker; Rhydian and Oliver McConnell; and Daniel and Frankie Granillo. She is also survived by many beloved nieces and nephews. In 2014, Jennifer married her true love, Douglas Neal McConnell, at Big Valley Grace Community Church. It brought her great sadness that she did not have more time to spend with her precious grandchildren. Jennifer’s favorite pastime was road cycling. She loved climbing hills and competing in rides such as the Death Ride, the Solvang Double, and the Davis Double Century. She also enjoyed hiking and snuggling with her Yorkshire Terrier, Toulouse. In 2019, Jennifer and Douglas took the vacation of a lifetime, spending two wonderful weeks in France. Jennifer struggled with alcoholism during part of her life. She found purpose in service through Celebrate Recovery and Alcoholics Anonymous. She was deeply grateful to CR Pastor Scott Stubbert, who joined Doug and Jennifer in matrimony. She was also grateful for her AA sponsor, Wanda Toomey, and her spiritual sisters Roxanna Brown, Rita Lauritson, MaryAnn Johnston, Susana Barajas, and Sherry Taylor. Sharon Newville became her spiritual mentor and taught her about God’s love, mercy, and forgiveness. Jennifer’s greatest pride was remaining sober during a very difficult and painful battle with cancer. As written in 2 Timothy 4:7 (NLT): “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful.”

Tributes

Jennifer Celeste McConnell

July 20, 1962 - April 24, 2026