Connie MacKenzie

Connie MacKenzie passed away peacefully the evening of February 6, 2025, with the love of family surrounding her at the Mackenzie residence in Ola, Idaho. 

Connie was the daughter of James (Edward) and Cleo Hudson. She was born on February 19th, 1945 in La Grande, Oregon. Connie had two brothers; Jerry, James (Jimmy), and a sister; Joann. She attended grade school in La Grande, Oregon at the La Grande Grade School and high school in Long Creek, Oregon. During high school she was MISS CONGENIALITY and was a cheerleader for her team, the Mountaineers.
  
Early on, Connie worked 3 jobs. She was a bookkeeper for Seneca Lumber and a trucking company as well as a waitress in Long Creek. It was around this time (1963) when she met the love of her life, Charles MacKenzie. Charles and Connie exchanged vows on February 5th, 1966 at 3 o'clock at the Long Creek Community Church located in Long Creek, Oregon. Connie wore a floor length lace gown and a veil that was held up by a pearl crown. On February 17th, 1966 they made their way to Caldwell, Idaho where they lived in an apartment and started their future together. Connie quit her job at Western Auto and directed her time to helping her husband run the Western Plumbing business. Together they purchased 80 acres in Sand Hollow, Idaho. Later, in 1986, they purchased the ranch in Ola Idaho. Connie and Chuck ran Western Plumbing and they nurtured a lifelong dream of being ranchers. They embraced the beauty of the land and the joy of raising animals. Connie and Chuck would cut up the dance floor anytime music was playing. They recently celebrated their 59th anniversary on February 5th 2025. 

Connie was a beacon of light in the lives of her family and friends. Her husband Chuck, and daughters Teresa, and Brenda, were the center of her universe. Connie cherished every moment spent with them. From joyful trips to Sears in the Karcher Mall to do family photos, to watching her daughters blossom into beautiful wives and mothers. Connie's heart overflowed with love and pride. Her home was a hub of laughter and connection. Countless hours were spent playing marbles, canasta, cowboy and Indians, and listening to music with her children and grandchildren. Each game was a cherished memory, a testament to the strong family bonds she nurtured. As her family grew, so did her joy. Connie welcomed each grandchild and great-grandchild into her life, celebrating their milestones with open arms. 

Connie's culinary skills were legendary. She was known for her delicious Chocolate Wacky Cake, finger steaks, fresh salads, and homemade noodles that graced the tables of family gatherings and special occasions. Cooking and baking were not just tasks for Connie, they were expressions of her love. Cooking was a way to bring everyone together around her dinner table. 

Her friendship with Linda Jackson, which spanned an incredible forty-seven years, was a cornerstone of her life. Linda was Connie’s confidante, their long conversations were filled with laughter, support, and shared memories. 

Connie was always ready to lend a helping hand, whether it was assisting her friends, family, or the local community. Her work ethic was unmatched. Connie was often found driving tractors, pushing cows, branding, horseback riding, building fences and tackling any challenge that came her way. Connie believed in the power of teamwork and never let anyone work alone. She was always right beside you, ready to lend her strength. Hospitality was a hallmark of Connie and Chuck’s home. Their door was always open. Connie had a unique ability to make everyone feel welcomed, loved, and appreciated. Connie’s selflessness and desire to help anyone was a comforting blanket over her home that made everyone feel like part of the family. 

Connie was an extraordinary woman with a multitude of talents, each one reflecting her vibrant spirit and generous heart. Her legacy of love, hard work, and hospitality will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her. 

Connie will be missed for countless reasons, but above all, it is her immense love that leaves a lasting void in our hearts. She was the unwavering rock of the family. Connie held everyone together through thick and thin. Connie had a remarkable ability to anticipate challenges and address them before they took root. She ensured that her loved ones felt secure and supported. Her nurturing spirit and steadfast presence provided comfort during difficult times. Connie’s laughter brought joy to even the darkest days. Connie's love was a guiding light, illuminating the path for her family and friends, reminding them that they were never alone. As we navigate life without her, lessons of resilience, compassion, and unconditional love will stay within our souls forever. Like the Mackenzie Brand, Connie's spirit and compassion is scorched into the hearts and minds of every person who was lucky enough to meet her. A forever mark on our own values and self-reflection, reminding us of the profound impact she had on our lives.

Connie is survived by her Husband Charles Mackenzie. Her brother Jerry Hudson, and Her children Teresa Mackenzie, Brenda (Mackenzie) Secor, son in law Gary (Tom) Secor JR. Grandchildren Houston Bright, Kody Mackenzie, Brooke Crawford, Justin Bright, and Layne Leasy. Eight Great Grandchildren, her nieces, nephews and many friends. 

Connie is preceded in death by her mother Cleo (Woodell) Hudson, her father James Husdon, her brother James (Jimmy) Hudson and sister Joann Shelley. 

Arrangements are being made by Potters Funeral Chapel in Emmett, Idaho. Viewing will be February 13th, 2025 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Funeral will be February 14th, 2025 at 2 o'clock PM at Potters Funeral Chapel in Emmett, Idaho. Grave site service will be at the Ola Cemetery. There will be dinner provided at Ola Community Hall in Ola, Idaho.  The family invites all who knew Connie to join them in celebrating her life and sharing their memories. The stories and reflections will be a source of comfort and joy to remember the beautiful moments spent with her.

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