Helen L McConnell Stephenson

Helen L. McConnell Stephenson, 95, of Lodi, OH, passed away on August 29, 2026, at Allure of Geneseo Care Facility in Geneseo, IL.

Helen was born on September 18, 1930, in Lodi, OH, the daughter of Dewey and Dot (Dudley) Rook. Her first marriage to Clarance McConnell blessed her with five children. During this time, she was dairy Farmer and farmed 165 acres outside of Wellington. In 1959 she took flying lessons at Boxford Airport following the birth of her fourth child. She went on to become a pilot and flight instructor. In 1963, they completed their family with the birth of her fifth child, a daughter, Leslie McConnell.

As the years passed and life changed, she met and married Robert Stephenson in 1996. He preceded her in death in 2002. Helen learned to swim at 65 years old, and later, at 70, learned how to ride a bike. She loved being with her family, spending time outdoors, gardening, and canning vegetables.

Those left to cherish her memory are four children: Connie Schick, Doug McConnell (Maria), Byron McConnell, Keith McConnell; eleven grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Dewey and Dot Rook; her husband, Robert Stephenson; three brothers, Kenny, Jim, and Phil Rook; daughter, Leslie Lowther; son-in-law, Gary Schick; and daughter-in-law, Linda McConnell.

Friends and family are invited to a Celebration of Life on Friday, September 25, 2026, from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the Wellington Eagles #2051, at 631 S. Main Street, Wellington, OH 44090; light refreshments will be served. Per Helen’s wishes, she was cremated and will be laid to rest in a private graveside service at the Sullivan Cemetery in Sullivan, OH.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Alzheimer’s Association (Alzheimer's Association ).