Frances H. Connell

Frances H. Connell, 91, of Dexter, NY, passed away peacefully on August 31, 2025, at Samaritan Summit Village, where she had been a resident.

She was born on January 20, 1934, in Madrid, New York, the daughter of Floyd and Beulah (McQuade) Crump. On April 26, 1952, she married Delmer C. Connell in Clayton, NY. The couple made their home on E. Bradley Street in Dexter, where they lived for most of their lives.

Frances and her husband both grew up working on their family farms and continued that tradition by working on several local farms throughout their lives. It was during these years that Frances developed her lifelong love for cooking, baking, and caring for animals.

A dedicated homemaker, Frances was best known for her warm hospitality and her incredible baked goods. Fondly referred to as “Franny’s Kitchen,” her home was always open to friends, neighbors, and anyone in need. She was famous for her pies, donuts, cookies, and cakes, and her home was the heart of every holiday and special occasion. Frances had a deep love for animals, often taking in stray cats and dogs.  She also enjoyed babysitting children in the community over the years and they loved her sweat treats.

She was a lover of music, often listening to her records and playing the organ. Above all, she took great pride in being a homemaker and was truly gifted in creating a loving and welcoming home.

Her beloved husband, Delmer, retired from Knowlton Brothers Paper Company after 36 years of service. He passed away on February 23, 2023. They were married for 67 years.

Frances is survived by her daughter, Kathy Brown of Dexter, NY; her son and daughter-in-law, Greg H. and Tammy L. Connell Sr. of Dexter, NY; three grandchildren: Greg H. Connell Jr. and his wife Gina, Tessa L. Frechette and her husband Austyn, and Jon-Alec Connell; one great-granddaughter, Natalia, and a great-grandchild expected soon, Isla. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her parents, her beloved husband Delmer, her son Nelson C. Connell, her son-in-law Vernon Brown, and many brothers and sisters.

Calling hours will be held on Monday, September 8, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 5:00 p.m. at Johnson Funeral Home, Dexter, NY. A funeral service will immediately follow at 5:00 p.m. at the funeral home.  Burial will take place at Dexter Cemetery on Tuesday at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Pet Peace of Mind Program through Hospice of Jefferson County, 1398 Gotham Street, Watertown, NY 13601. Contributions will help enable hospice patients to keep their beloved pets with them throughout their end-of-life journey.

Online condolences may be shared at www.dexterfuneralhome.com.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.