Conna Durfee Brown

Conna Durfee Brown passed away peacefully in her home on January 11, 2023.  She was born on July 7, 1929, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Alvin Durfee and Minnie Tolman.

Conna is survived by her two sons, John Stohel and Reed (Debbie) Stohel; and her two sisters, Nathella Hansen and Marcia Chisholm.  She is preceded in death by her two parents, Alvin and Minnie; her three sons, Glenn (DeeAnn), Michael, and Randy (Rayma); and her siblings, Brothers Judson, Milo and Leon Durfee. Sisters, Meleta Jukes and LaJuana Moss.

Conna impacted the lives of those that were around her.  She spent many years serving her ward and stake, particularly in the calling of Stake Camp director.  She ran a tight ship there and was quickly given the title of “Sargent Lucy”.  She loved to sing and spent hours serving her community in a church group called ‘Singing Mothers’.  Conna also found joy in serving the Lord in the temple and did so for many years.  

Conna was a tremendous mother and grandmother and worked hard to meet the needs of her family.  She was a single mother to 5 young boys, sacrificing when necessary for their wellbeing.  Those boys went on to give her 16 grandchildren and many great grandchildren.  After her children were grown she helped care for and raise several of her grandchildren when the need arose.  Through her words and actions it was clear how much she cherished her family.

If you were to walk into her home, you might find Conna busy on a crossword puzzle or reading a favorite book ... again.  She would frequently spend all of December making fudge, caramel, and other favorite holiday candy and was excited to share it with others.  She couldn't get enough of John Wayne reruns or 1970 game shows.  She was a master at working with her hands, making crocheted pot holders, which she would generously give to anyone who walked through the door, and spent hours creating elaborate cross stitches. She loved the challenge of a complicated jigsaw puzzle.  She would never say no to a game of Pinochle and her competitive nature was passed down to many in her posterity.  When younger, she also enjoyed spending time camping with her siblings and found joy being in nature with them.  

If you were to go and visit Conna, she was always fast to point out how blessed she was.  From the overflowing full bookshelf to the hidden stash of Milky Ways she was quick to point out all she had.  She was excited to show you her large collections of thimbles and spoons and made sure that you knew that she was well taken care of.  She sometimes showcased a tough exterior, but when you saw that glint in her eye, you knew that there was nothing but love.  Times weren’t always easy for her, but she showed resilience and grace as she went about her life.

The family would like to express gratitude to Valeo Hospice Care.  We are grateful for the kind and loving service that you provided our sweet grandma. 

A viewing will be held from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM on Wednesday, January 18 at SereniCare Funeral Homes:  2281 S. West Temple, SLC.  A graveside service will follow on Thursday, January 19 at 10:30 at Memorial Redwood Mortuary & Cemetery: 6500S Redwood Road, SLC.  All wanting to pay their respects are invited to attend.