Grace Evelyn Shelby McConnell, 96, of Kuttawa, KY, passed away Sunday, July 27, 2025, at Charter Senior Living in Paducah, KY.
Grace was born on May 25, 1929, to the late Oakley and Iris Shelby in Marion, KY. She graduated from Marion High School in the Class of 1948. After which, she married the late William G. McConnell on June 18, 1948, in Marion and eventually moved to Kuttawa in 1953. They acquired the local pharmacy, and it became McConnell’s Drug Store. Grace was the drug store’s bookkeeper until the age of 85.
She was a member of Kuttawa United Methodist Church, where she sang in the choir for many years and served as a Sunday school teacher and church treasurer. Grace later became a member of Kuttawa Independent Church. She was an active member of several civic clubs.
Grace was known for her kindness and generosity throughout the community. She was sincerely loved by her family, friends, and all who knew her. Grace enjoyed spending time with her family and friends and crocheting for the Prayer Shaw Ministry at her church.
Grace loved her title as “Gagi,” given to her by her granddaughter, Rachel, and carried on by her precious great granddaughter, Ava.
She had such a positive and funny personality, even up until her passing. Grace will be remembered for her love, kindness, and care for all.
Grace is survived by her son, Tom McConnell of Kuttawa, KY; daughter, Carol Rogan (Michael) of Rogersville, TN; granddaughter, Rachel Rogers (Patton) of Knoxville, TN; and great granddaughter, Ava Rogers. She is also survived by nephews, John Shelby (Kristen) of St. George Island, FL, and James Shelby (Anne) of Frankfort, KY; niece, Deanna Phelps (Dick) of Bowleys Quarters, MD; nephew, Robert McClain of Vail, CO; and nephew, Richard Clement (Karen) of Cadiz, KY.
In addition to her parents, Grace was preceded in death by her husband of 67 years, William G. McConnell; sister, Louise McClain; brother, Ralph Shelby; and brother and sister-in-law, Joe and Betty Clement.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at Kuttawa Independent Church with Brother Jed Ramey and G.L. Ovey officiating, with a special message by Grace’s dear friend, Charlotte Sowards. The graveside service will follow at Kuttawa Cemetery.
Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until service time on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at Kuttawa Independent Church, formerly Kuttawa United Methodist Church.
Expressions of sympathy may be made in Grace’s memory to Kuttawa Independent Church, P.O. Box 158, Kuttawa, KY.
