Connie Bruning Obituary

Connie Faye Bruning passed away peacefully on June 12, 2025, in Bryant, AR at the age of 81. She was born on April 4, 1944, in Burlington, Colorado, to Arthur Ellis and Lucy Fern Gaines. Connie was raised in Kirwin, Kansas, where she graduated from Kirwin High School. In 1962, she married the love of her life, Dean O. Bruning, at the Methodist Church in Kirwin. Together, they built a warm and loving home and were blessed with three sons: William Dean, Curtis Lyle, and Troy Scott. Connie was known for her strong work ethic, steadfast loyalty, and unwavering dedication in every role she held. She worked at the Phillips County Medical Clinic and later became office manager for Dr. Richards until he relocated his office. She then joined the business office at Phillips County Hospital. In 1991, Connie and Dean moved to Rogers, AR, where she worked in the Trust Operations department at First National Bank, handling distributions. Connie spent her final years in Benton, AR. She enjoyed making new friends in her Dark Forest & Fox Ridge Communities. She had fun crafting and playing games with family and friends. During their 50 years of marriage, Connie and Dean shared a passion for remodeling homes and enjoyed camping and fishing adventures with their sons. They were both actively involved in Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts and found joy in countless hours crafting together. Connie was a longtime member of the Methodist Church in Glade, Kansas, and later transferred her membership to Salem United Methodist Church in Benton, Arkansas. Connie lived with kindness, led with fairness, loved without condition, and created beauty with her hands and heart. Connie is survived by her three sons and their spouses: William and Stephanie Bruning, Curtis and Angi Bruning, and Troy and Maurica Bruning. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Rachel Ellis; nine grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and many beloved nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Dean; her parents; her brothers, Harold Lee Ellis and Vincent Ellis; and her sister, Vada Unrien. Known for her warmth, quiet strength, and unwavering devotion to her family, Connie touched the lives of all who knew her. Her memory will forever remain in the hearts of those she loved and who loved her in return. A memorial service will be held on Friday, July 25, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., at the Olliff-Boeve Memorial Chapel, in Phillipsburg, Kansas, with Pastor Joel Hiesterman officiating. Burial will follow at the Fairview Cemetery, in Phillipsburg, Kansas. Memorial contributions may be made to the Phillips County Hospital.