Twyla Anna O'Connell peacefully passed into eternal life on February 6, 2012 with her twin daughters by her side. She went from the loving arms of her family into the loving arms of Jesus. She was 96 years old.
A long time resident of Reno, Twyla had a blessed and wonderful life that spanned almost a century. Twyla was born in Salt Lake City, UT on November 8, 1915 to Clayton and Maudie Archibald. She grew up in Carlin, Nevada and found her way to Reno as an adult. Her determination, tenacity, creativity and quick wit allowed Twyla to be successful at whatever she put her hand to. She was a beauty operator in Elko, a keno runner at Harrah's in Reno and a homemaker. She was a true optimist and always tried to look for the good in everything. Twyla enjoyed cooking, gardening, roses, traveling, pinochle and bingo.
Her greatest pleasure in life was being a homemaker, mother, a grandmother and a friend. She sheltered us, guided us and gave us wisdom and faith in God. We loved her. We are thankful for every moment with her. Twyla always wanted to be involved and included in what her family was doing. One of her favorite sayings was: "We have a wonderful family!" She was Irish through and through and loved to celebrate holidays, especially St. Patrick's Day.
She had a deep faith in God. During the last year and a half she showed formidable courage and strength while dealing with many physical issues.
She was preceded in death by her brother, 'Rusty' Archibald, during World War II; her sister, Elda Galvin; and the love of her life 'Grizz' O'Connell. She is survived by her children, Robert (Mary Helen) Burns, Janel (Pat) Fontana, Ginger (Greg) Reeder, John (Lisa) Lyninger, and step-son J. Pat (Wanda) OiConnell. She is also survived by 11 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren and 1.5 great-great-grandchildren.
A special thanks to Dr. David Julian and the staff at Life Care Center for their compassion, kindness and medical care. A rosary will be held at Our Lady of Snows Church on Friday, February 17, 2012 at 7 p.m. and the memorial service will also be held at Our Lady of Snows Church, 1138 Wright Street, Reno, NV on Saturday, February 18, 2012 at 10:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that a donation be made to the Carlin Open Door Senior Center or the charity of your choice in loving memory of Twyla.
Rest in peace Twyla... we will see you again someday.
The family invites you to leave a message in the Book of Memories at www.waltonsfuneralhomes.com.
