Zelma Lorene Mcconnell

Zelma Lorene McConnell, of Avon Park, FL, passed away on September 22, 2025—just one day after celebrating her 93rd birthday. She was born on September 21, 1932, in Thomasville, GA, to William and Leona (Cannon) Truluck. Lorene grew up in Lake Wales, FL, alongside her siblings: Hazel, Doris, Loyce, Wayne, LaVonne, and Patty. She worked at Hunt Brothers as a citrus packer until she married James Wayne “Mac” McConnell and moved to Avon Park, where they raised their family and made so many lasting memories.

She found joy in life’s simple pleasures—preparing meals for family, sitting around a campfire sharing stories, and spending time at thrift shops and restaurants with friends. These were the moments she treasured most. She will be remembered as a wonderful cook whose meals brought comfort to everyone gathered around her table. The family will especially miss the unmistakable aromas of fried fish, hush puppies, and her famous chocolate mayonnaise cake. The scent of it baking always meant love, togetherness, and home. Lorene lived a life grounded in Christian values, she was strict but loving, devoted to family, and put others needs ahead of her own without expecting anything in return. If you were lucky enough to be "worried over" by Lorene, you knew without a doubt that you were deeply loved.

Lorene is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law, Karen and Dave Angell and Dana and Patrick Stiff; her grandsons, Connor and Carson Angell; her beloved brother, LaVonne Truluck; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. She is so deeply loved and will be dearly missed.

Funeral services will be held Friday, September 26 at 3:00pm at Stephenson-Nelson Funeral Home Chapel, Avon Park with Rev. Marcus Marshall officiating. The family will receive friends beginning at 2:00pm. A graveside service will follow at Bougainvillea Cemetery in Avon Park.

Services entrusted to:
Stephenson-Nelson Funeral Home
111 East Circle Street
Avon Park, FL  33825
Online condolences may be left at:
www.stephensonnelsonfh.com