Beverly Jean Connally (1937-2024)

Beverly Jean Connally, 86, passed away Sunday, Jan. 14, 2024, in Ellsworth, Kan. She was born Dec. 4, 1937, in WaKeeney, Kan., to Fred Schwien Sr. and Dolly (Mai) Schwien. She married the love of her life, Richard Connally, in Collyer, Kan., on Aug. 29, 1959.
She began her career working for Imperial Oil Company, next a campaign assistant. Bev and Rich ultimately landed in the special community of Ellsworth, making it their home, where she started in administration at Citizens State Bank, then later as a vice president and loan officer at the bank for a total of 30 years of service. In 1988, she graduated from the Graduate School of Banking at Colorado. She was also very active in the Chamber Ambassadors, Community Relations Board for the Ellsworth Correctional Facility, PEO and a faithful member of Ellsworth First Presbyterian Church and the church choir. She cared deeply for her family and community. She did this not out of obligation, but because of who she was. Most importantly, she was a devoted and loving mother, grandmother and wife.
As a mother, both Rick and Greg always felt her unconditional support. Bev and Rich instilled in their sons the strong values that have served them well as they continue to fulfill her legacy of loving kindness. She always provided comfort in times of distress and joy in moments of celebration.
Bev’s role as a grandmother held an exceptionally special place in her heart. The impact she had on her grandchildren’s lives is immeasurable, leaving them with lasting gratitude for the role she played in their lives. Her grandchildren will forever treasure all of the countless memories they have with Grandma Bev. Her caring heart and one-of-a-kind personality led her to being called Grandma Bev by not only her grandchildren, but also by everyone who was blessed enough to know her.
Bev is survived by her loving husband Richard, Ellsworth. They met while both living in WaKeeney, and were married for nearly 65 years. Before settling in Ellsworth, Bev and Rich lived in WaKeeney, Hoxie, Hutchinson, Hays while attending college, Wichita, Seattle, then finally their longtime home, Ellsworth. Bev and Rich enjoyed traveling, playing Mexican Train or pitch, spending time on their acreage in Black Wolf, and of course, being around loved ones. Their marriage was the epitome of devotion, commitment to family and friends and building a legacy that will live far into the future.
Other survivors include her sons Rick Connally (Roxi), Ellsworth and Greg Connally (Sam Zech), Smithville, Mo.; grandchildren Madison Connally (Tyler Flanagin) and their son Carter Lewis Flanagin, Halle Holmes (Grant) and Jackson Connally (Nina Williams); brother Carroll Schwien, Columbus, Ohio, a nd many nieces, nephews and a broad group of family and friends who will forever hold her dear. She was preceded in death by her parents Fred Sr. and Dolly, brother Fred Schwien Jr. and sisters-in-law Bernadine Schwien and Bonnie Schwien.
A memorial service will take place at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 23, 2024, at Ellsworth First Presbyterian Church with a luncheon following and memories to share about our beautiful Bev. Memorial contributions can be made to Ellsworth First Presbyterian Church c/o Parsons Funeral Home, P.O. Box 45, Ellsworth, KS 67439. Condolences can be left at parsonsfh.com.
Although she leaves a void that cannot be replaced, her memories and love will always be cherished. Her legacy will continue to live on through all of the lives she touched, and we find comfort in knowing Bev’s soul rests in eternal peace, embraced by the loving arms of Jesus.