Charles Connor

Charles Albert Connor, lovingly known as “Irish,” passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at 9:55 p.m. at Gateway Regional Medical Center in Granite City, Illinois. He was 88 years old.

Born on May 6, 1937, in Murphysboro, Illinois, Charles was the son of the late Albert Dawson Connor and Helen (Sims) Connor. On January 26, 1962, he married the love of his life, Mary Sue (Laswell) Connor, in Granite City. Their marriage was a beautiful example of love and devotion, and she survives him.

A proud veteran of the United States Air Force, Charles went on to dedicate over 40 years of hard work to Granite City Steel, retiring in 2000. He was a man of strong faith and a longtime member of Calvary Life Church, where he was actively involved, especially with the Men’s Breakfast group. His deep love for God, family, and community defined his life.

Charles will be remembered for his warm heart, generous spirit, and ever-present smile. He had a natural gift for bringing joy to others, and his presence lit up every room. His family was his greatest joy, and the time he spent with them created memories that will be cherished forever.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 63 years, Mary Sue Connor;
his children, Jeff (Elizabeth) Connor of Maryville, and Tamara (Dan) Brimm of Granite City;
his beloved grandchildren, Adam (Carolyn) Connor, Rachel (Andrew) Ribbing, Hannah (Steven) Trask, Clayton Brimm (Kayleen Welch), and Christopher Brimm;
his treasured great-grandchildren, Nora, Hudson, Scarlett, Brynn, Esther, and Piper.

Charles also leaves behind his sisters, Dorothy Waggoner of St. Jacob, Shelly Bettorf of Granite City, Darlene (Steve) Odom of Bunker Hill, and Debbie Sowash of Fairview Heights;
along with many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and seven brothers: Martin Troy, Ross, Ralph, Roy, Joey, Timothy, and Gerald Connor.

In celebration of his life, visitation will be held on Thursday, October 9, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Calvary Life Church, 4650 Maryville Road, Granite City, Illinois.
Funeral services will take place on Friday, October 10, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., also at the church, with Reverend Mark Maynard and Reverend Dan Brimm officiating.
Charles will be laid to rest with full military honors at Glen Carbon City Cemetery, Glen Carbon, Illinois.

Memorial donations may be made to Calvary Life Church in his honor.
Family and friends are invited to share memories and condolences online at www.irwinchapel.com.

Obit Provided By:
Irwin Chapel Funeral Home