Connie McClellan, a resident of Safford, entered into eternal rest Thursday, July 4, 2024, at her home with her family by her side. She was 81.
Connie was born in Safford, Arizona to Ernestine O’Neil Hatman Melton and Lemuel Miller Melton. She spent her school years in Old Morenci and graduated high school in 1960. She had a bright mind and enjoyed her school years. Connie met the love of her life while she was working at the Kopper Kettle in Morenci while waiting tables at the age of 16.
Darrell Joe McClellan and Connie were married in Lordsburg, New Mexico on May 12, 1961. They divorced in February 1975 and were united again on May 13, 1993, in Strawberry, Arizona. They were married a total of 45 years. They had one daughter, Darrlyn Jo McClellan, born on November 27, 1961.Connie was a hard worker and worked many jobs including the Kopper Kettle, Buffo’s Jewelry, Morenci Hospital, Estes Drug Pharmacy, and the Phelps Dodge Pharmacy in Morenci. She retired in the year 2000.
She is survived by: her husband, Darrell; daughter, Darrlyn (John Parley Edwards); grandchildren, Jonna LaNell (Bryon Lewis Gray), Britney Jo (Scott Allen Garner), Chesley Brandt Edwards (Macie Alee), Colton Clell Edwards (Jayna Allyson); six great- granddaughters, Allie, Alexandria, Taylor, Parlee, Tatum, Reagan; one great-grandson, James; sister, Georgia (Larry Stone); brother, Rocky Melton (Anita); and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Connie is predeceased by: her mother, father, sister Lana Melton; sister Judy McGrath; and brother Ricky Melton.
Connie was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Funeral services for Connie were conducted Saturday, July 13, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at the Solomonville Chapel of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Concluding services followed in the Virden Cemetery.
A special thank you to Dr. Damron, MGRMC ICU, Haven Health of Safford, and especially Haven Hospice of Safford.
Online condolences may be offered at www.viningfuneralhome.com
Arrangements were entrusted to Vining Funeral Home.
