David Connell

David "Leroy" Connell, 85, of Republic, Mo., went to heaven on Wednesday, Dec. 23, 2020. Leroy was born Oct. 24, 1935, in Centertown, Mo., to Richard and Myrtle (Cliburn) Connell. He attended California R-1 High School. Leroy served in the U.S. Army, enlisting in 1954. He married Shirley L. Carver on Nov. 20, 1955. Leroy was preceded in death by his parents, an infant brother and another brother, Richard "Little Richard" Connell. He is survived by his wife, Shirley of Republic; daughter, Cindy Bowlin (Steven) of Springfield, Mo.; son, Darrell Connell (Tammy) of Springfield; daughter, Bobbi McCain (Mark) of Ozark; and daughter, Nancy Ryan of Paris, Texas. Leroy also leaves seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, as well as four sisters and a brother. A private graveside service will be held Sunday, Dec. 27, at Shiloh Cemetery, officiated by the Rev. Roy Barnard. Arrangements are directed by Bowlin-Cantriel Funeral Services.