David G. “Huey” McConnell, 78, of Franklin, passed away Saturday, June 13, 2026, at UVA in Charlottesville, Virginia.
Born December 12, 1947, in Washington, D.C., he was a son of the late Harold and Martha Estella Propst McConnell.
On January 28, 1972, David married the love of his life, Dianne Christine Hevener McConnell, who survives in Franklin.
David’s early years were shaped, in part, by his education at Franklin High School, which laid the foundation for a lifetime of hard work and commitment. He proudly served his nation as a member of the United States Army during the Vietnam War, dedicating three years to military service with honor and distinction.
Professionally, David’s career was closely tied to agriculture and the community; he was a grower for Perdue. In addition, he worked alongside Paul Morton at State WV Surveying and later embraced entrepreneurship as the co-owner of Hevener Motor Equipment Company with his wife, Dianne, following the passing of Stanley Hevener. His vocational journey reflected a man who valued hard work and community service.
Beyond his professional achievements, David was an active and valued member of various organizations. His membership in the VFW and the American Legion honored his military legacy, while his past involvement with the Franklin Moose Lodge #769 and the Franklin Volunteer Fire Department and the Pendleton County Farm Bureau demonstrated his ongoing dedication to civic duty. A member of Faith Lutheran Church, David’s spirituality was a cornerstone of his life.
In addition to his wife, David leaves behind to cherish his memory, his son, David “Davy” McConnell (Hillary), of Franklin; grandchildren, Hunter McConnell (Nikki) and Reagan Christine McConnell and fiancé, Josef Armstrong; great-grandchildren, Hunter Marston, Quinley, Hattie and Dawson McConnell; brothers, Gene McConnell (Joan), of Circleville, and Scott McConnell (Becky), of Brandywine; extended family Renee Linn (Daniel); Linda, Suzanne and Tom Stewart; George Hevener (Cary); Jordan Ronek and family; Louise Moore (Jerry); Jared Moore and family.
The family will receive friends Thursday, June 18, 2026, from 5 to 6 p.m. at Basagic Funeral Home in Franklin. A Celebration of Life with Military Honors will follow at 6 p.m. in the funeral home chapel, with Pastor Mike Loudermilk officiating.
