Mary Louise Wagner Connors

Mary Louise Wagner Connors, formerly of Lake Wales, died Friday, February 11, 2011, in Norman, Oklahoma. She was born March 8, 1924, in Illinois. She was 87.

She married the love of her life, Paul Thomas Connors, on VE Day, May 8, 1945.

Mary came to Lake Wales in 1958 with her husband and growing family, and was known by many. Here she raised her children, all of whom attended Lake Wales schools. Mary performed volunteer work for various community organizations including the Lake Wales Hospital, Little League, the PTA, and Holy Spirit Church. She enjoyed bowling, and represented Lake Wales at many state and national tournaments. Her pies, cakes, and pecan rolls were renowned at many local charitable bake sales.

Mary and Paul left Lake Wales in 1974, eventually building a new home in their beloved mountains of western Colorado. After Paul's death in 1993, she eventually re-located to Norman, where she had family.

Mary is survived by nine children: Beth, Josephine Ann, Patricia, Robert, Timothy, Vincent, Monica, Teka, and Jerry, as well as 25 grandchildren, 43 great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren. In addition to her husband Paul, she was proceeded in death by three grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 Monday, February 21, at Lake Wales Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, Mary requested that donations be sent to St. Jude Children's Hospital, 501 St Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.