Frances “Jackie” Coughlin Connell

Evans, GA – Frances Coughlin Connell “Jackie”, 84, passed away peacefully on January 10, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Born on December 27, 1941, in Savannah, Georgia, Jackie was the daughter of the late Mary Frances Coughlin and John William Coughlin. She was raised on a farm in Millen, Georgia, where she developed the grit, humor, and resilience that would define her life. A gifted athlete, she was a half-court basketball standout at Jenkins County High School, a talent that fueled her lifelong love of sports.

Jackie was a proud and devoted resident of North Augusta, South Carolina, for most of her life. A passionate sports fan, she cheered faithfully for the South Carolina Gamecocks, the Atlanta Braves, and the Atlanta Falcons. Her competitive spirit and enthusiasm were contagious to all who knew her.

Deeply proud of her Irish heritage, Jackie embraced every opportunity to celebrate her roots. As the daughter of an Irish immigrant from County Cork, Ireland, she carried her “Irish lassy” spirit with joy, humor, and unmistakable pride throughout her life.

Jackie dedicated much of her professional life to caring for others, retiring from University Hospital after a long and meaningful career in home health. Her compassion and commitment to service were evident both in her work and in her personal life.

She was preceded in death by her beloved son, Charles Gregory Connell; her sister, Mary Jean Coughlin Cooke (Dixon); and her parents, Mary Frances Coughlin and John William Coughlin.

Jackie leaves behind a loving family who will cherish her memory always, including her daughter, Karyn Connell Edmondson (Paul); her grandchildren, Makenzie Layne Wilch (Elliott) and Tanner Perry Grose (Jessica); and her treasured great-grandson, Henrik Bode Wilch. She is also survived by her devoted companion, her toy poodle, Paddy, whom she adored and who adored her in return.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the countless caregivers who provided exceptional help in care and compassion, including the staff of Judd C. Hickey Center, Allay Hospice, Bristol Hospice, and Doctors Hospital. Their kindness and dedication will never be forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Jackie’s name to Via Cognitive Health, 105 Lutheran Drive, Augusta, Georgia 30907.

Jackie will be remembered for her strength, loyalty, humor, and the deep love she had for her family, her teams, and her heritage. Her life was one well lived, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. She was simply fabulous!

A celebration of life for Jackie and details will follow at a later date.

Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors, 214 Davis Rd., Augusta, GA 30907 (706) 364-8484. Please sign the guestbook at www.thomaspoteet.com