Connie Louise Hales

Connie Louise Hales, age 73, died peacefully in her sleep with family by her side, on December 27, 2017. Connie was born in Catskill, New York August 28, 1944, daughter of Charles Russell Pierce and Marie Rose Winner-Pierce, both deceased. She was the sister of Clyde Russell Pierce, Mabel Marie Pierce, and Ann Rose Pierce, all deceased. Connie enjoyed helping others first and foremost. She was a devoted, loving wife and mother. She would give anything to anyone in need and would always put other’s needs before her own. She enjoyed her family and friends and was a devout spiritual person. She will always be remembered for her steadfast, patient, and calming nature, as well as her unique ability to understand and empathize with everyone. She was her children’s best friend. Connie attended Gainesville High School and was a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Gainesville, FL. She was a very active and passionate volunteer for various organizations for the homeless, as well as underprivileged children. Connie worked as church secretary for St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, United Trinity Methodist Church, and Westside Baptist Church. Connie enjoyed reading, gardening, and crafts. Christmas and the celebration of the birth of Christ was her favorite time of the year. On November 4, 1961, Connie married her husband of 37 years, Jesse Manfield Hales, Sr. who preceded her in death October 1, 1998. Connie had two children, Claudia Elizabeth Hales-Rasnick and Jesse Manfield Hales, Jr. Connie is survived by her children Claudia, her husband Kenneth Rasnick Jr, and Jesse Jr.; two grandchildren, Thomas and Travis Hales and their wives; and three adopted grandchildren, Cheyenne Thomas, David and Amber White. She also leaves behind many loving nieces and nephews; other relatives and loving and close friends and her beloved cats, Dolly, Axel and Sweet Pea. A Graveside Service for family and friends will be held Wednesday, January 3, 2018 at 1:30 p.m., in Evergreen Cemetery, 401 SE 21st Avenue, Gainesville, with Fr. Lawrence Peck officiating. Flowers and other mementos may be sent to WILLIAMS-THOMAS FUNERAL HOME DOWNTOWN, 404 North Main Street. In lieu of flowers, those who wish may make memorials to St. Francis House, P.O. Box 12491, Gainesville, FL 32604.

Connie Louise Hales

August 28, 1944 - December 27, 2017