Roberta L. “Birdie” Connelly, 91, of Burlington, Iowa, passed away Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City.

Born on April 12, 1934, in Burlington, Iowa, she was the daughter of Otto and Hazel Emery Erickson. On November 28, 1953, in Moline, Illinois, she married Dean Connelly. He preceded her in death on March 21, 2003.

After touring the country as a military wife. She and Dean retired to one of the houses she helped her brother move from the site of the current highway. She enjoyed yardwork and helping her brother on his farm. She also enjoyed dancing and never missed the chance to dance at the Moose Lodge, Senior Center, or the Cotillion Club.

She is survived by her son Dean Connelly; six grandchildren: D.W. Connelly, Jason Zahner, Diane Cardot, Michael Connelly, Brandon Connelly, and Alyssa Connelly.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Dean; daughter Debbie Ralston; fiancé Jaime White; brothers: Otto Erickson, Clinton Erickson, Robert Erickson, Dana Erickson, John Erickson, and Bill Erickson; and sisters: Ceola Wasson and Thelma Connelly.

Per her wishes, cremation has been entrusted and accorded to Lunning Chapel, and no services will be held.

Roberta L. “Birdie” Connelly, 91, of Burlington, Iowa, passed away Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City.Born on April 12, 1934, in Burlington, Iowa, she was the daughter of Otto and Hazel Emery Erickson. On November 28, 1953, in Moline, Illinois, she married Dean Connelly. He preceded her in death on March 21, 2003.After touring the country as a military wife. She and Dean retired to one of the houses she helped her brother move from the site of the current highway. She enjoyed yardwork and helping her brother on his farm. She also enjoyed dancing and never missed the chance to dance at the Moose Lodge, Senior Center, or the Cotillion Club.She is survived by her son Dean Connelly; six grandchildren: D.W. Connelly, Jason Zahner, Diane Cardot, Michael Connelly, Brandon Connelly, and Alyssa Connelly.She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Dean; daughter Debbie Ralston; fiancé Jaime White; brothers: Otto Erickson, Clinton Erickson, Robert Erickson, Dana Erickson, John Erickson, and Bill Erickson; and sisters: Ceola Wasson and Thelma Connelly.Per her wishes, cremation has been entrusted and accorded to Lunning Chapel, and no services will be held.