New Wilmington - With hearts full of love and gratitude, we celebrate the life of Millicent May McConnell, 86, who passed away peacefully Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2025.

Born to the late William and Sadie McGary in Volant, Pennsylvania, Millicent lived a life overflowing with kindness, devotion to family, faith and community.

Millicent grew up on the family farm, where her lifelong love of animals took root. As a young girl, she proudly drove their team of Belgian horses, sparking a passion that would carry throughout her life. Together with her family, she owned and cherished a farm and training stable where American Saddlebred horses were shown with great success.

Her greatest joy was watching her daughter and grandchildren share her love of horses, and she glowed with pride at their accomplishments. With whip and lines in her talented hands, she was at her brightest, and a graceful presence in the show ring.

She also found deep friendship in Charles Wilson, who cared for and trained the family's horses and became part of their extended family.

Millicent built a remarkable professional career with the United States Postal Service, beginning as a part-time clerk in her beloved hometown of Volant and later serving as postmaster in Volant, New Wilmington and Sharon. She retired as the postal operations manager for the Erie district.

After retirement, she delighted in working at Westminster College, where students and staff were greeted daily by her warm smile as the welcoming face at Galbreath Dining Hall.

Her life was anchored in her faith. A devoted lifelong member of the Presbyterian Church, she joyfully served as Sunday school teacher, youth leader, deacon, treasurer and elder. She truly lived her faith through her service, happiest when she was giving her time and love to others.

Millicent was preceded in death by her husband, James Keith McConnell; her newborn daughter, Mildred Elmira; sister, Bessie Wimer; and brothers, William, Robert, Albert and Richard McGary.

She leaves behind a legacy of love in her daughter and son-in-law, Barbara and Jon Haverty; her grandchildren, Laura and Kyle Coverdale of Erie, Pennsylvania, and Emily and Stephen Mildner of Zephyr Cove, Nevada; and her great-grandchildren, Ryan, Rachel and Danielle Coverdale, and Hudson Mildner. Each of them carries forward her spirit of joy, strength and boundless love.

Millicent's final days were spent surrounded by her family and friends, sharing stories, smiles and love. Her light will continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday Sept. 24, 2025, at Smith Funeral Home, 310 W. Neshannock Ave., New Wilmington, PA 16147 with Pastor Rebecca Rosengarth presiding. The family will receive friends from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2025, and from 10 to 11 a.m. on the day of the service at the Smith Funeral Home in New Wilmington.

Interment to follow at Fair Oaks Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association online at alz.org or by mail to 320 Nevada St. Suite 201, Newton, MA 02460. An organization dear to our family.