Sandra J Connor

After a self-described wonderful life, Sandra Jane Connor, nee Halford, age 88, of Rockford, IL, and formerly of Park Ridge, IL, passed away July 19, 2026, at home.

Sandra was born in Neenah, WI, to the late Cecelia & Robert Halford. After graduating from the University of Michigan and attending Northwestern University for graduate school, Sandra was proud to have worked in educational publishing in a time when it was considered to be progressive for a woman. Somehow, she was also the Girl Scout leader, the Room Mother and All The Things, leading by quiet example, as was her way. She hated gossip, loved travel and enjoyed a Manhattan but nothing brought her happiness like her granddaughters. She loved them and laughed with them, and they will always treasure their time with ”Gaga.”

Sandra is survived by her daughter, Kelly Connor (Joseph Mazukelli), of Rockford, IL, son Timothy Connor (Jacqueline) of Dexter, MI, granddaughters Ryleigh and Katie, beloved sisters and brother-in-law, nieces and nephews, great-nieces and nephews and dear friends, all of whom she adored and could elicit her excellent giggle. Sandra is preceded in death by the love of her life, Kevin Connor, her sister Sally Halford, several of Kevin’s siblings and their spouses, all of whom were the very best friends to Sandra in life.

A celebration of life will take place on Friday, July 26, 2026, from 2pm to 4pm at the Olympic Tavern, 2327 N Main St, Rockford, IL 61103. Manhattans will be served.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Habitat For Humanity, https://secure.habitat.org/site/Donation2?df_id=8757&8757.donation=form1&s_src=DNAW26056166201&mrasn=1632216.2037502.zqdg5J4v or Misericordia Home, https://www.misericordia.com/pages/giving.

Stateline Cremations is assisting the family, 6204 Forest Hills Rd., Loves Park, IL 61111. www.statelinecremations.com