William "Billy" Connell Jr.

William “Billy” Connell Jr., 53, of Cadillac, went on his last road trip on Friday, June 28, 2024. He was a graduate of Reed City High School and previously lived in Paris, Michigan. He loved driving and telling people how marvelous a truck driver he was. He was a vendor for Coke, 7UP, Frito Lay and also drove for Dial-A-Ride in Big Rapids. Billy had a beautiful smile and a wicked sense of humor.

He is survived by his three children, William “Will” Connell III of Big Rapids, Jacob Connell of Cadillac, and Elizabeth “Lizzie” Connell of Big Rapids; mother, Linda Connell of Big Rapids; sister, Kimisue (Doug) Worrall of Chase; grandson, Brady Laliberte of Scottville; and in-law’s Thom and Leslie Durfee of Grand Rapids.  Bill leaves behind aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews, cousins and friends.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Bridget Durfee Connell; father, William Connell Sr.; grandpa, Ray Willmer; uncle, Kim Willmer Sr; and cousin, Kim Willmer Jr.

Memorial services will be held on Saturday July 13, 2024 at the Third Avenue United Methodist Church at 2 p.m. in Big Rapids. In lieu of flowers, please make donations towards the cremation and family expenses. An account has been set up at Horizon Bank for Billy.

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