Theresa Ann "Terri" McConnell

News Death Notice

McCONNELL, Theresa Ann (nee Buzzell) "Terri" Of Dayton, Ohio died October 11, 2009 at her home surrounded by family and friends. Terri fought the cancer that killed her with all her courage and strength, always managing a smile and sense of humor. Toward the end of her life, Terri had the good fortune to be in the care of Vitas Hospice who treated her with respect and understanding. Special thanks to her faithful friend, Chris DeJonghe, who did all the necessary things to help the family cope, as well as all the friends and family who sent cards, food, visited and ran errands. Terri was born in Augusta, Maine on March 6, 1958, a daughter of Avon Buzzell (Buzz) of Augusta, ME and Emilyn Warming (Emmy) of Litchfield, ME. Terri grew up in Litchfield, graduating from Libby-Tozier School and CMVTI in Auburn, ME, majoring in graphic arts. Terri began her very successful career in graphic arts at Jackson Lab, Bar Harbor, ME and Maine Printing, Portland, ME. She was offered employment at Harris Graphics in Dayton, Ohio and moved there in 1984, where she has resided ever since. Terri climbed her career ladder at various companies, her most recent employment being at Gravity in Cincinnati as Director of Business and Brand Strategy. Terri was a valued employee at Gravity since 2002 and instituted and designed a marketing program for packaging in-­store national brands. Terri is survived by her loving sons, Max Byron and Vincent Michael McConnell, of Dayton; her Mom and Dad; brother Peter Surette and wife Kerry of Augusta, ME; sister Juli-Ellen Hunt of N. New Portland, ME; half sister and brother Cathy Reynolds and Jeff Buzzell and extended Buzzell family; partner Doug May with whom she shared many adventures and tender moments; Mark McConnell, former husband with whom she maintained a nurturing and comfortable relationship in the raising of their sons; and that "little white dog from outer space" Winnie. Also surviving are her adoring nieces and nephews, Jackson and Silver Hunt of N. New Portland; Emma Hunt of MD; Cameron, Siobahn, Calleigh, Brendan, and Taylor Surette of Augusta; Aunti Al Leibfried and Uncle Don Cooper of Clinton, MA; Aunts Melissa Catlin and Kay Spencer of Augusta; cousins Sara Ayotte of Augusta, Heidi McCormick, Jennifer Voutilanen of MA, Cristen Kominsky of VA, Stephanie Merritt of Newcastle, ME; Fred Leibfried of N. Anson, ME and Uncle Collin Robinson of VA. Terri was predeceased by Aunti Fran Robinson of CT and brother-in- law Howard Hunt of N. New Portland. Theresa was named after the song "St. Theresa of the Roses" and although she had some 'saintly' qualities, her impishness and mischievous nature defined her personality. Terri was active in politics, nature conservation, toastmasters' group and monthly card club. She enjoyed writing, reading, gardening and long conversations with her beloved sons. Terri had an unending curiosity and strong drive to explore and experience new horizons. She had many, many friends (young and old), co-workers and family members who loved and learned about life from her 'teaching' ways. A gathering of friends and family will be held on Saturday October 17, 2009 from 12:00 to 1:30 pm at the TOBIAS FUNERAL HOME ENGLEWOOD CHAPEL, 675 West Wenger Road. Immediately following this ceremony, friends and family are invited to Terri's home at 4130 Stonewall Circle, Dayton for an informal celebration of her life. A memorial service will be held at Popham Beach in Bath, ME at a later date to be announced. In lieu of flowers, a donation in Terri's name to Vitas Hospice, 3055 Kettering Blvd, Dayton, Ohio 45459 will be appreciated. Good-bye "Alicesneed" we will miss you! Online condolences to her family may be made to www.tobiasfuneralhome.com