Connie Louise Young, 76, of Alton, Missouri, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2025, at Cox Medical Center in Springfield, Missouri, surrounded by her loving family.
Connie was born on February 23, 1949, in Keokuk, Iowa, to Frederick “Fred” Zinnert and Dorthy Rose (Black) Zinnert. She was raised in Kahoka, Missouri, in Clark County, where she attended Clark County Schools until the age of 15. Her family then moved to North Bend, Nebraska, where she continued her education until moving prior to her senior year. Her family’s final move—to Macon, Missouri—would become one of the most meaningful chapters of her life.
In Macon, Connie met her true and faithful love, Thomas “Tom” Edward Young Jr. The two were united in marriage on February 27, 1971, beginning a lifetime of devotion and partnership. Together they settled in Alton, Missouri, where they operated Young’s Produce Inc. Connie was Tom’s steadfast supporter in both business and life.
Connie was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She is survived by her two children: Hope (Joe) Goffeney, of Ozark, MO and their children Noah and Lily; and Thomas “Eddie” (Amanda) Young, of West Plains, MO and their children Slade, Piper, and Ridge. Her heart overflowed with love for her grandchildren, and she relished every opportunity to spoil them, cheer them on, and create lasting memories.
She shared a lifelong bond with her older brother, Tom Zinnert, and his wife Jan—Connie’s best friend of 62 years. Their close-knit relationship, rooted in both family and friendship, was a treasured part of her life. Connie also shared a special connection with her sister-in-law Cathy Garner and her brother-in-law Roger Garner, relationships filled with love, laughter, and steadfast support. She was a proud and loving aunt to Heidi and Ryan Zinnert, as well as Mark and Michel Garner, all of whom held a special place in her heart.
Connie had professed her faith in Jesus Christ and was a member of the United Methodist Church. Her faith was a quiet but steady compass in her life, reflected in her compassion for others and her generous, kind-hearted nature.
She had a passion for raising and owning quarter horses, and she delighted in watching them race across the country. Her adventures with fellow horse lovers brought her countless friendships and wonderful memories. Connie loved to travel, make people laugh, and offer support—especially to the underdog. Her wit and strength could lift any room, and she had a special talent for bringing light to even the most difficult situations.
Connie was preceded in death by her parents, Fred and Dorthy Zinnert, and her brother, Tom Zinnert.
Though she has left this earthly life, her spirit lives on in the hearts of all who loved her.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, from 11:00 a.m.. to 1:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Alton, Missouri. A funeral service will follow at 1:00 p.m. to celebrate Connie’s extraordinary life. Burial will be in the Smith Cemetery, Alton, MO. Arrangements under the direction of the Clary Funeral Home, Alton, MO.
Connie will be deeply missed by her family, her many friends, and everyone blessed enough to have known her. Her legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering support lives on in all of us.
Memorial contributions may be made to Smith Cemetery or the charity of your choice.
