Mary Christine Connell-Milo

Mary Christine Connell-Milo passed away on March 15th, 2018 at 56 years young. She was born in West Islip, New York, to Claire and Jerry Connell.

Chris earned her Bachelor's in Social Work from FSU and her Master's in Public Policy from UCF. She worked for over thirty years in child protection, with her last two decades at Children's Home Society, CHS, for Central Florida. At the time of her passing, Chris was the Director of Program Operations of Orange County. In addition to her CHS responsibilities, she oversaw the Faine House in Orlando, Florida. The Faine House provides children, who have aged out of the foster care system, with a home while learning life skills, education, and job training.

Chris will forever be remembered by her caring nature, compassion, and dedication to her family and "her kids" at work. Her co-workers viewed her as being "full of sugar, spice, and badass". She was protective of her family, children, and staff. She took pride in herself for being her nieces' and nephews' "favorite auntie". Chris enjoyed traveling and going on cruises with her family in Europe, Alaska, and New York, during which she enjoyed collecting art work.

Chris and Vincent Milo were married on July 15th, 1997 in Orange County, Florida. They have two daughters, Madison Milo (age 20) and Bailey Milo (age 17). Chris had the privilege of being a stepmom to Vincent Milo Jr. (age 45) and Lori Milo (age 42). She also leaves behind eight step grandchildren.

Chris is survived by her husband, Vince Milo, her daughters, Madison and Bailey, her mother, Claire Connell, her sisters, Susan Jackson, Patricia Robertson, Mary-Jo Snively, and her brother, John Connell. She is predeceased by her father, Jerry Connell.

Chris' family will always remember her boisterous laugh, inappropriately hilarious comments, and kind heart. She was always quick to say, "I love you," and we would all give anything to say we love her one more time.

Chris' Celebration of Life will be on March 21st at 11:00AM at St. Augustine Catholic Church, 375 North Sunset Avenue, Casselberry, Florida.

The family asks that, in lieu of flowers, please bring a backpack full of school supplies to the service. We are asking for a backpack of school supplies, which will be donated to Children's Home Society for their Annual Back to School Drive, because it was one of her most beloved charitable events. If you prefer, donations can be made directly to Children's Home Society in Chris' name.