Connie Garrison

Connie Sue Garrison, of Carmi, Illinois, left this world with as much flair and zest as she lived in it. Fiercely loving, effortlessly polished, and the life of the party.

Born on August 31, 1941, to Clarence and Annabelle Roark, Connie grew up surrounded by love and laughter in a house full of sisters - Louise Stone, Naomi (Ed) Acord, and Gail (Merv) Terrell - all of whom remained her closest companions through every stage of life.

Connie's playful charm showed up early. Her sisters loved to tell the story of the time she and Louise got caught skipping school and were grounded for seven days. In classic Connie fashion, she tried singing her way out of trouble with "Seven Lonely Days." It didn't work - but the performance was unforgettable, just like her.

She married the love of her life, Bill Garrison, on February 18, 1962. Together, raising 3 wonderful children, and building deep roots in their community. Connie opened Connie's Cozy Kitchen, where her fried chicken and mashed potatoes became small town famous. Together, they owned and operated Palace Cleaners in Carmi for 23 years. She was a proud member of the Carmi Country Club and loved golf - though she never let Bill forget the time he took a turn too sharply and tossed her out of the cart.

She was the queen of sleepovers, dance parties - Chantilly Lace on repeat, and making every grandchild feel like her favorite - a secret she whispered to each in turn. With a soundtrack of Elvis and Patsy Cline, she twirled through life with joy and just the right amount of mischief. Who else would think to fill Christmas gift boxes with "snowman poop" just to teach a lesson about snooping?

She is survived by her daughter Rhoda (Tom) Cox of Ridgway, son Guy (Kristi) Garrison of Evansville, and daughter-in-law Cheryl Garrison of Norris City. Her legacy lives on through her nieces, nephews, and grandchildren who brought her endless pride and joy: Anna Rae (Drew) Cox, Andrew Cox, Kyle Garrison, Marissa (Alex) Ridge, Adrian Garrison, Kassandra (Andrew) Bouquet, Brittanie Garrison, Hayli (Tyler) Almon, and Alex (Kelsey) Bittner - along with an ever-growing crew of great-grandkids who filled her home and heart. She is also lovingly remembered by her dear friend, Chet.

We know the first dance party in heaven was reserved for a few very special people: her loving husband Bill, her beloved son Tab, and her adoring parents.

The family would like to thank Linda E. White Hospice House for their compassion and care. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to this wonderful organization.

A celebration of Connie's life will be held 1:00 PM Tuesday, August 5 at Emmanuel Church, 203 Edgewood Lane in Carmi with burial to follow in Union Ridge Cemetery. Visitation will be from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM At the Emmanuel Church in Carmi. The J. M. Weirauch Funeral Home of Harrisburg is in charge of arrangements.