Yvonne "Vonnie" Marie Connolly

Yvonne “Vonnie” Marie Connolly, age 87, passed away peacefully on August 31, 2026, at her home in Lakeville, Minnesota.

Born on May 19, 1939, in Appleton, Minnesota, Vonnie was the daughter of Marshall and Lucille Raw. She lived a magnificent life filled with style, grace, and an undeniable presence.

Vonnie married Thomas Connolly of Danvers, Minnesota, on September 27, 1974. Together, they brought two households together, creating a family that would grow through generations of children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Vonnie gave generously of her time and talents throughout her life, serving on numerous boards, supporting her church, and contributing to causes close to her heart. She also had a natural talent for making things beautiful. She had an exceptional eye for design and a special gift for adding the “Vonnie touch” to everything she did.

Perhaps Vonnie’s greatest gift was the way she made people feel. Her charm was second to none. She could begin and hold a conversation with absolutely anyone, and her cheeky humor put others instantly at ease. No matter the person or the setting, Vonnie took a sincere interest in those around her and made them feel seen, important, and special. Every child, grandchild, and great-grandchild knew that feeling in her presence. Her affection was generous, her encouragement sincere, and her joy in those she loved was immeasurable. She had a way of making even the smallest moments feel important and every occasion worth celebrating.

Vonnie was an irresistible force: strong, spirited, elegant, and unapologetically herself. She knew who she was and moved through the world accordingly. Her unmistakable style, grace, humor, and larger-than-life presence will live on through the generations she loved and in all those fortunate enough to have known her.

Vonnie is survived by: Deb Connolly of Danvers, Vince (Joyce) Connolly of John's Creek, GA, Joe (Pam) Connolly of Lake Elmo, Ellen (Jeff) Eckhoff of Northfield, Daniel (Marcia) Connolly of Starbuck, Chauntel (Brad) Rode of Benson, Kim Knutson-Schoepski (James) of Rockford, IL, and Cari White of Chicago, IL; grandchildren: Pat, Tara, Krysta, Katie, Tom, Meagan, Jina, Joni, Chris, Annie, Emily, Joey, Courtney, Ashley, Danielle, Karen, Matt, Danielle, Shea, Ian; great grandchildren: Calvin, Finley, Hazel, Margo, Alex, Harper, Taylor, Camden, Calla, Maci, Cami, Lexie, Brynn, Ben, Teddy, Jack, McCoy, Lane, Lennon, Presley, Shelby, Marley; sister, Kathy (Byron) Thompson of Bloomington, MN; and other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas; her parents, Marshall and Lucille; her brother John; son, John Connolly; and son-in-law Peter White.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Danvers Visitation Catholic Cemetery Fund or to Danvers Visitation Church Fund, Address 508 13th St N, Benson, MN 56215. Or Minnesota Hospice – 17645 Juniper Path, Suite 200, Lakeville, MN 55044.

The family will gather privately to honor her memory.