Linda J. McConnell

Linda J. McConnell, 65, of Syracuse, New York, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 25, 2024, on Christmas Day, with her son and life partner, Jeff, by her side. Linda was a dedicated employee of General Electric before helping run her family’s business, McConnell Concrete Floors. She earned an Associate’s degree in Business from Onondaga Community College and later pursued her passion for nursing, receiving her Licensed Practical Nursing certification from BOCES. She spent many years working in long-term care at Iroquois Nursing Home, where she found great joy in helping others. Linda had a deep love for music, particularly blues and jazz, and enjoyed traveling with her life partner, Jeff, to attend concerts. She was an active hockey parent and grandparent, always supporting her family in their pursuits. Linda was also a strong advocate for Alcoholics Anonymous and served as a counselor and sponsor, especially for women in jail. As a proud tribal member of the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe of Akwesasne, New York, Linda was always connected to her Native American heritage. She cherished her family and valued the time spent with her loved ones. Linda was predeceased by her parents, Henry R. McConnell and Mary A. McConnell of Syracuse. She is survived by her life partner of 25 years, Jeffrey Germain of Camillus; her son, Robert S. Smola Jr. of Camillus; her daughter-in-law, Rebecca A. Smola of Camillus; her granddaughter, Mariah Magdziuk; her son-in-law, Kory Magdziuk; two great-granddaughters, Lydia and Rosalie Magdziuk, all of Camillus; her granddaughter, Madison Smola of Syracuse; her grandson, Robert Smola III of Camillus; four brothers, Danny McConnell, Hank McConnell, Vernon McConnell, and Billy McConnell; two sisters, Lisa and Leslie McConnell; her sister-in-law, Mary McConnell; as well as many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Visitation & Services: Services will be held at Ballweg & Lunsford Funeral Home, 4612 S. Salina St., Syracuse, NY 13205, on December 31, 2024. Services from 10 AM to 12 PM and calling hours from 12 PM to 2 PM Memorial Contributions: In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Linda McConnell’s Loving Legacy Fund via GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/67363169. Linda will be remembered for her kind heart, dedication to family, and selfless service to others.