Harold James McConnell

Long-time Oklahoma City businessman, Harold James McConnell, passed away on Thursday, October 7, 2021, in Oklahoma City, OK.

Throughout his lifetime, Harold had many roles and wore a multitude of hats but several points were consistent: hard work, quick wit, and a calculated sense of humor.

Harold was born on March 8, 1930 in Macomb, OK to James Oscar James and Erma Mae McConnell. One of six children, he grew up in Tecumseh, OK. Always athletic, Harold played football in high school and in college at Oklahoma Baptist University. He later moved to Liberal, KS and then settled in Oklahoma City in 1964.

After serving in the US Marine Corps, Harold spent more than 40 years in the oil and gas business and owned multiple companies before retiring to become a “gentleman farmer”.

Harold was a lifelong member of the Baptist Church and joined the Portland Avenue Baptist Church in 1968. He was proud to host the church’s annual ‘Summer Social’ party at his home for over 23 years.

Harold is survived by his wife Cathie McConnell; two children, Barbara ‘Bobbie’ Marlow and Jeff McConnell; his siblings, Myrna Talley, Jack, Eugene, and Jerry McConnell; grandchildren Gwen Guenzel and Kathryn McConnell; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Harold was predeceased by his wife Joyce Moore McConnell; wife JoAnn French McConnell; parents, Oscar & Erma McConnell; and his sister, Syble Martin.

The family would like to thank Dr. Lou Chambers and Dr. Randy Morgan for many years of care, compassion, and guidance.

Harold will be buried at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Oklahoma City. Due to ongoing issues with the COVID virus, a public funeral service is not planned at this time. If you would like to honor his memory, please make contributions in his name to the Portland Avenue Baptist Church, 1301 N. Portland Avenue, Oklahoma City, OK 73107.