Twyla Sue McConnell

It is with deep sadness the family of Twyla Sue McConnell announce her passing on January 5, 2022, at the age of 76, after a courageous, on and off struggle, with leukemia over the last five years. She was surrounded by all of her loving family in the final week before her passing.

For over 50 years , Twyla was the beloved wife to Robert McConnell. She was the loving mother to her daughters Erin McConnell, Tyra McConnell, and her son-in-law David Dingle.

Her parents, Reverend Kenneth C. and Margie E. Tabor, and her younger brother, Pastor Kenneth (Kit) Tabor precede d her in death. She is survived by her three sisters: Bonnie Parker, Tanya Douty, and Kamala Tabor.

Twyla was born in Kokomo, Indiana but grew up in San Jose, California. She met her future husband, Robert, in San Jose in 1969 and they were married in 1971. She obtained both a BA and a Masters degree in Education. Twyla taught in the public school system for over 21 years , initially as a teacher, then as a guidance counselor, and retired as a librarian/media specialist.

Robert's career with the federal government caused them to move four times between 1971 and 1996 to include living in Missouri, California, Michigan, and South Florida. After Robert retired, they moved to Boynton Beach/Lake Worth area residing in Valencia Shores since 2003.

Beginning in the early 2000s, Twyla and Robert fulfilled their dreams of traveling through out Europe, Canada, and the States , planning one or two trips each year . After every trip, Twyla enjoyed combining live videos with photographs from her trips into CDs so that she could relive her joy of those moments and share with friends and family.

Twyla was best known by her family, friends, co-workers, and neighbors for her strong belief in a positive attitude toward yourself and life. She wrote and published a book for young children to help them develop self-esteem. Her empathetic heart made her generous to people and causes, and she consistently encouraged those she knew to believe in their talents and capabilities. Twyla shared her enjoyment for life with almost everyone she met .

In retirement , Twyla also delighted in growing and cultivating orchids, and roses. Her roses created a decadent aroma that she enjoyed until her last moments.

She also began a hobby of raising and released endangered monarch butterflies during the past five years of her life . She raised and released over 1200 of the m onarch butterflies.

A celebration of life will be held at Palm Beach National Chapel on April 4, 2022 at 11am , and subsequent burial in the Veterans Administration South Florida National Cemetery .