Gerald McConnell

1937 - 2026

Gerald McConnell
Born: November 9, 1937
Died: February 24, 2026
Gerald Robert McConnell, 88, of Spring Valley, passed away peacefully on February 24, 2026 at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria, with family by his side.
Jerry, or "J.J." as some friends called him, was born in Sublette, IL on November 9, 1937 to Robert and Jane (Bildhauer) McConnell. Gerald "J.J.'s" wishes were to be cremated. No services will be held. His ashes will be buried next to his precious mother at Peru City Cemetery at a later date. The Barto Funeral Home, Spring Valley, is honored to be assisting his family.
Jerry had been married to Barbara Noonan, and they had one daughter, Jerilynn. He was a self-taught man who could do anything and was very handy. He was always ready to help someone out. He loved riding his motorcycle and cruising the highways with the wind in his face and the smells in the air.
He had several jobs in the Illinois Valley area. He also lived and worked in Kissimmee, FL, working at Disney World and helping to build many of the attractions. He had also been a cross-country semi-truck driver and enjoyed crossing many states and seeing the country. He often took his dog, TJ, with him. Jerry will be missed!
A special thanks to his neighbor, Myron Peeler, who always kept an eye on him, and shoveled his snow, cut his grass, and visited with him. Thanks so much for all of your help!
Jerry is survived by his daughter, Jerilynn Jones, of Charlotte, TN; his sister, Carol Essl, of Peru; his brother, Tom McConnell, of Spring Valley; three grandchildren, Michael Little of Dixon, Sarah Vandersnick of Rock Falls, and Emily Carr of Tampico; five great grandchildren, Lauren and Conner Little, Sophia and Colin Vandersnick, and Steven Carr; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Jane (Bildhauer) McConnell and his two brothers, James McConnell from Waldport, OR, and Robert McConnell from Morris, IL.
A guestbook may be signed and memories shared with the family by visiting bartofh.com.