David G. McConnell, 78, affectionately known to many as “Huey,” passed away on June 13, 2026, at the University of Virginia Medical Center in Charlottesville, Virginia.
Born on Dec. 12, 1947, in Washington, D.C., he was the son of the late Harold and Martha Estella (Propst) McConnell.
Mr. McConnell’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, his career was closely tied to agriculture and the community; he was a grower for Perdue. In addition, he worked alongside Paul Morton at State West Virginia 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, he 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, the Franklin Volunteer Fire Department and the Pendleton County Farm Bureau demonstrated his ongoing dedication to civic duty. A member of Faith Lutheran Church, his spirituality was a cornerstone of his life.
Those who knew him remember him fondly for his funny nature and loving heart, traits that endeared him to family and friends. He embraced life with a big spirit, engaging with the world around him in a way that left a lasting impression. Pride in his family was among his greatest accomplishments, a sentiment reflected in his close relationships and genuine care for those he held dear.
On Jan. 28, 1972, he married the love of his life, Dianne Christine (Hevener) McConnell, who survives in Franklin.
In addition to his wife, he leaves behind to cherish his memory a son, David “Davy” McConnell (Hillary) of Franklin; two grandchildren, Hunter McConnell (Nikki) and Reagan Christine McConnell and fiancé, Josef Armstrong; four great-grandchildren, Hunter Marston and Quinley, Hattie, and Dawson McConnell; two brothers, Gene McConnell (Joan) of Circleville and Scott McConnell (Becky) of Brandywine; and extended family including Renee Linn (Daniel), Linda, Suzanne, and Tom Stewart, George Hevener (Cary), Jordan Ronek and family, Louise Moore (Jerry) and Jared Moore and family.
He was also preceded in death by his grandparents, Glenn and Margie Propst; his aunt, Minnie Bowers; a nephew, Robert Lee McConnell; and in-laws, Stanley and Reva Hevener.
The family will receive friends from 5 to 6 p.m. today at the Basagic Funeral Home in Franklin. A celebration of life will follow in the funeral home chapel with Pastor Mike Loudermilk officiating.
Memorials may be made to any Pendleton County Fire Department or to Deer Run Vacation Bible School Fund, c/o Sharon Harr, 687 Siple Mountain Rd., Franklin, WV 26807.
Memories and words of comfort may be left at www.basagic.com.
