Connie Kay Echols, a cherished resident of Cuba, Missouri, was born on December 30, 1949, in Anamosa, Iowa, to George and Erma (Schlotterbeck) Caspers. After a life marked by dedication, creativity, and love, she peacefully departed this world on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at the age of 76.

On April 15, 1967, Connie was united in marriage to Leslie H. Echols in Anamosa, Iowa. Together, they were blessed with two children, Angie and Greg, who brought great joy to their lives. Connie’s professional journey was as diverse as it was inspiring. She began her career at Convey Shoe Company and later embraced entrepreneurship through The Wildflower Flowers & Gifts and Connie’s Shoppe. In 2009, driven by vision and determination, she undertook the restoration of the Historic Wagon Wheel Motel on the iconic Route 66. Through her steadfast commitment, the Wagon Wheel was revived, welcoming travelers from near and far who sought to experience the beauty and nostalgia of this historic landmark.

From a young age, Connie harbored a profound love for horses, dedicating countless hours to training, showing, and trail riding. Her creative spirit extended to arts and crafts, ceramics, sewing, gardening, and canning. She also found pleasure in a round of golf, embracing life’s simple joys. Above all, Connie cherished her roles as a grandmother and great-grandmother, delighting in the opportunity to nurture and spoil her family.

Connie is preceded in death by her beloved parents; her husband, Leslie H. Echols; her sister, Jean Caspers; her brother-in-law, Steve Schmaljohn; and her great-granddaughter, Ruby Kay Korte.

She leaves behind a legacy embraced by those who loved her dearly: her two children, Angie (Joe) Medwick of Cuba and Greg (Sheila) Echols of Steelville; four devoted grandchildren, Kayla (Richard) Korte of Steelville, Alexandra (Neal) Grogan of West Lafayette, Indiana, Jenna (Jesse) Mills of St. Louis, and Ryan Echols of Cuba; and nine treasured great- grandchildren—Sophia, Violet Mae, June, William, Lucille Belle, Perla Dove, Everett, Blaine, and Zaverie. Connie’s fiancé, Charlie Yowell of Cuba, and his children—Charles (LeAnn) Yowell of St. James, Ande (Tom) Miller of Eureka, Wes Yowell of Pacific—and their grandchildren Paxton Yowell and Avery Campbell also fondly remember her. She is further survived by seven brothers and sisters: Randy (Roseanne) Caspers, Rick (Virginia) Caspers, Rusty Caspers and fiancée Deb, Brenda Echols, Deb Schmaljohn—all of Anamosa, Iowa—and Riva (Ray) Echols of Cuba; her beloved horse Roper; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and a wide circle of friends.

In the latter months of her life, Connie embraced her love of the Lord and enjoyed services at the Apostolic Christian Tabernacle in Steelville. Connie Kay Echols lived a life full of passion and perseverance. She stood by her convictions, an admirable, although sometimes challenging quality. Her memory remains a blessing to all who knew her, a testament to a life gracefully and fully lived.

A private family visitation and service will be held. Interment at Licklider Cemetery, Cuba, Missouri.

In lieu of flowers, memorials would be appreciated to the Power of Hope Equestrian Center, 3 Farmhouse Lane, Steelville, Missouri 65565 or www.powerofhopeeec.com

The Mizell Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to be serving the family of Connie K. Echols.