Karen W. Connelly

Karen Williams Connelly, 68 of Niles passed away peacefully at home, on Thursday September 5, 2019 surrounded by family after a long illness.

Karen was born April 7th 1951, in Warren the daughter of her proud parents Tom and Luella Knai Williams.

After graduating from Niles McKinley in 1969, Karen attended Ohio State University and eventually graduated from Youngstown State University.  Karen earned a bachelor’s degree in social work and later a master’s degree in counseling. Karen worked in the mental health field in the Mahoning Valley until her retirement and helped hundreds of people with mental illness. She loved her work and her love for people could be seen in all aspects of her life. 

On November 29, 1980 she married the love of her life, Tom Connelly and together they made a life in Niles. Karen loved to laugh and enjoyed hosting parties, picnics and events in her home. Christmas Eve and Memorial Day were her favorite events and her parties became traditions among family and friends. Karen loved to cook and bake and was constantly trying new recipes.

She will be dearly missed by her devoted husband Thomas R. Connelly; her loving children, Thomas and Laura Connelly and Megan and Brian Gibson; her grandchildren, Lucy Gibson, Max Gibson, and Lily Jones; a sister Patty Williams, a brother Bryan (Lisa) Williams; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Tom and Luella Williams.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Karen’s physician Dr. Zul Mangalji and the nurses at Trumbull Memorial Hospital for their exceptional care and compassion during her illness. 

Family and friends may call on Monday, September 9 from 4-7 PM at Joseph Rossi Funeral Home in Niles.

Funeral services will be held Monday at 7PM at The Joseph Rossi and Sons Funeral Home in Niles.

Arrangements are being handled by The Joseph Rossi and Sons Funeral Home in Niles.

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