Connie J. (Pifer) Paxson left this earth on Sunday, Aug. 13, 2023, from Brookdale Assisted Living in Sarasota, Florida.

As the middle child, she was born to parents, Doris Baker & Rodney Paxson of rural Bluffton, and granddaughter of Ira & Edna Baker and Elva & Telfer Paxson, whom now are all deceased.

Surviving siblings are Carolyn (Tom) Rotell and Janis Case, both of Vero Beach, FL, Christine (Steve) Mann of Sarasota, FL, & Rodney Kent (Lorraine) Paxson, of Minster, OH.  She was widowed by her beloved husband, Richard "Dick" Pifer, who passed in 2014; however, celebrated 31 years of a happy marriage.  Their daughters who survive are Jeri (Chuck) Miller of Yoder, Jan (Terry) Biddle of Hamilton, Linda (Jim) Martin of Monroeville, and Laura Loe of Fort Wayne.  Eight grandchildren and fifteen great grandchildren survive as well.

Connie graduated from Ball State & Indiana University, and her teaching career started at Southern Wells High School in art.  It has been recalled by a loving friend that her works inspired students to create and were phenomenal, having given those children "gifts of a lifetime".  Connie was employed by Dana Corporation & ITT as a graphics designer.  She will be most remembered as one who loved.  She appreciated the fine arts, as well as artistic design of pottery and jewelry, once designing and selling her own pieces.  As an avid reader and writer, she could not resist sharing her taste with others.  Even her beloved dog, Lucy too, had artwork at the level of her dog dish, until Lucy's demise several years ago.

Most dearly, Connie loved her family and friends. She also enjoyed hours of watching westerns; specifically, James Arness of Gunsmoke.  She will be remembered as being most unique; her laugh, her smile, and a heart that no one else could duplicate or replace.  A wonderful reason to thank God for her impact upon her family, friends, and others, that will miss her greatly.

A private graveside service and burial will be held at a later date at Elm Grove Cemetery in Bluffton.  Goodwin - Cale & Harnish Memorial Chapel in Bluffton has been entrusted with the arrangements.