Charles Edward "Ched" McConnell

Charles Edward McConnell (Ched) of Boca Grande, Florida, passed away on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at the age of 77. Ched was born on September 1, 1948, in Suffern, New York, to Warren and Jeanette McConnell. He grew up alongside his brother, Thomas McConnell, in Cresskill, New Jersey, and spent many weekends with his grandparents in Barnegat, NJ. It was there that his love for the water first blossomed. Some of his fondest childhood memories were spent fishing and sailing with his father and brother.

Ched attended Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut, where he graduated with honors in 1970. He later served four years in the U.S. Army Reserve. After completing his service, Ched embarked on a distinguished career in the financial services and investment industry that spanned more than forty years, and went on to found McConnell, Budd, & Downes, in Morristown, New Jersey with his partners and friends.

Harding Township, New Jersey, was home for much of Ched's life, where he raised his three children with his first wife, Ann. In addition to his professional commitments, Ched was passionate about education and served as the President of the Board of Trustees at The Morristown-Beard School attended by two of his children. He also had a lifelong love of baseball, college football and was an avid baseball card collector, a hobby he shared with his son.

Being on the water brought Ched great joy. He spent many summers on Shelter Island, New York, where boating, fishing, and time with family and friends became cherished traditions. Whether fishing offshore or cruising with loved ones, Ched was happiest at sea.

In 2008, Ched retired and moved to Boca Grande, Florida, with his second wife, Maureen. He quickly embraced the Boca Grande community, becoming actively involved in volunteer work on the island. He volunteered as President of the Boca Grande Historical Society and was one of the founding members of the Boca Grande Sea Turtle Association in 2012, helping to support conservation efforts on the island's beaches. Ched also served as a docent at the Boca Grande Lighthouse and Museum, where he enjoyed sharing the rich maritime history of the area with visitors.

Ched is survived by his three children: Megan Brozowski (Greg), Corey, and Charles "Todd" (Rachel); his four grandchildren: Molly, Matthew, Georgia, and Charlie; his sister-in-law, Joy; several nieces and nephews; and the many dear friends he made throughout the many chapters of his life.

The family will gather privately for a small ceremony to celebrate Ched's life. They appreciate everyone's thoughts and support during this time. In lieu of flowers, anyone wishing to honor Ched's life may make a donation to the Boca Grande Sea Turtle Association, https://bocagrandeseaturtles.org.