Celebrating the Life of
Gerri Craig Connally
June 6, 1931 — May 23, 2023
Obituary
June 6, 1931 - May 23, 2023
Gerri Craig Connally (1931-2023) was a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who dedicated her life to guiding and inspiring others. Growing up in Abilene Texas as one of six children, she inspired others with her musical talent and heart for service.
She met her sweetheart, J. Pat Craig, during their time at Hardin-Simmons University, where they provided church services to prisons and other organizations with Gerri playing piano and Pat preaching. Gerri began playing the piano at a young age and served as a pianist in various churches throughout her life.
After graduating Magna Cum Laude from Texas Christian University, she went on to earn a Master of Arts in Counseling from Kent State University while fulfilling the monumental task of being a full time mother to her five children. Gerri then worked as a dedicated guidance counselor at Lorain High School for over 25 years. Her caring nature, listening skills, and words of wisdom impacted the lives of her students, guiding them towards joy and fulfillment.
After the passing of her husband J. Pat, in 1985, Gerri returned to Texas and continued her counseling career in Abilene, Brownwood, Granbury and Arlington. Following her retirement, she embraced her role as a grandmother helping to raise her grandchildren and embarked on memorable journeys across the United States and Europe. Gerri found joy in long drives, relishing moments of quiet contemplation during these trips.
In 2006, Gerri found love once again with Howard Connally. They shared a wonderful 5 years together at St. Francis Village, where they supported the community and enjoyed the tranquil beauty of the surroundings. Gerri remained an active volunteer at Texas Health Southwest Hospital and was a devoted member of the choir and congregation at Arborlawn United Methodist Church.
In 2023, Gerri peacefully passed away in Aledo, Texas, surrounded by family. She is survived by her children: Terrie, Merrie, James, Holly, and Robin; grandchildren: Andrew, Christie, Lucie, Eleanor, Annie, Danielle, Samantha, Chris, and Craig; and great-grandchildren Avery, Jack, Kendall and Carsyn.
Gerri Craig Connally's legacy of love, compassion, and dedication will be cherished by all those whose lives she touched.
Services
Memorial Service (In-Person)
Friday, July 28, 2023, 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm Central Time
Arborlawn United Methodist Church
5001 Briarhaven Rd #4406 Fort Worth, TX RECEPTION following service
Memories and Condolences
Please share a photo or video, or post a heartfelt condolence to the family.
Note on photo indicates this is the red dress she wore on her first date with J. Pat
Top right to bottom left, Gerri's siblings and mom: Monroe "Buddy", Tim, Fred Gerri, Nana, Bernice (Sister Eunice, deceased)
Gerri at 1 years old
with Grandson, Chris, and grand baby Kendall
Gerri and Howard
Gerri and Jim
I wanted to share the Memorial Video of Mom - a 6 minute tribute made up of videos and photographs, compiled with love for our wonderful mother. Cut and paste the link to view. https://photos.app.goo.gl/A12jDMniQwpx8HPo6
I will always have fond memories Gerri, Pat, Terrie, Merrie, Jim, Holly, and Robin. The family is a great example of what a family should be. Gerri, her sacrafices and kindness for others was an inspiration.
I will never forget Mrs. Craig (how I knew her at Lorain High School). Unfortunately she was not my guidance counselor. What she was for me for which I'm forever grateful for is an adult who made herself available when I wanted to talk. I will never forget her kindness and compassion and warm smile. My deepest sympathies to her family. The world is a better place because of her. Her memory will always be a blessing.