Longtime Brownwood Resident Wanda Faye Connaway Passes Away at 94

Connaway spent her life in Brown County and was remembered for her warm heart and love of elephants.

Published on Feb. 3, 2026

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Wanda Faye Connaway, a lifelong resident of Brownwood, Texas, passed away on February 3, 2026, at the age of 94. Connaway retired after many years of service with MHMR and was cherished by her family and community for her kind spirit and sense of humor. She is survived by her sons, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.

Why it matters

Connaway's passing marks the end of an era for a longtime Brownwood resident who dedicated her life to public service and her family. Her story reflects the tight-knit community of Brown County and the importance of honoring the lives of local elders.

The details

Wanda Faye Connaway was born on September 23, 1931, to Cecil and Velma Forbess in Brownwood, where she lived her entire life. She retired after many years of service with MHMR, the local mental health and developmental disability authority. Connaway was remembered by her loved ones for her warm heart, wonderful sense of humor, and special love for elephants, which reflected her gentle and joyful spirit.

  • Wanda Faye Connaway passed away on February 3, 2026.
  • Connaway was born on September 23, 1931.

The players

Wanda Faye Connaway

A lifelong resident of Brownwood, Texas, who retired after many years of service with MHMR and was cherished by her family and community for her kind spirit and sense of humor.

Cecil and Velma Forbess

Wanda Faye Connaway's parents, with whom she was born and raised in Brownwood, Texas.

Wayne Ely

One of Wanda Faye Connaway's sons, who lives in Moody, Texas.

John Connaway

One of Wanda Faye Connaway's sons, who lives in Brooksmith, Texas.

Louis Ely

Wanda Faye Connaway's true love, who preceded her in death.

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The takeaway

Wanda Faye Connaway's life and legacy serve as a reminder of the importance of honoring the lives of local elders and the tight-knit community spirit that can thrive in small Texas towns like Brownwood.