Candice Crystal Conner Burrell was born on April 13, 1983, in Eureka. She passed away peacefully in her sleep on January 6, 2025, in Willits. She was born to Frederick and Joyce Conner as the youngest of four siblings including two sisters, Angela and Catrina, and brother Frederick.

From birth, Candice had a happy spirit. She smiled and wanted to play and engage with people. She loved the adoring attention from her older siblings. Throughout her childhood she had an exceptionally close bond with her father as they were both adventurous and risk-takers. At nine months old, Candice would wait for her dad to arrive home and point to the stereo to dance with him. Her family was known for playing music and dancing with family and friends. She also enjoyed playing with her dogs, cats, and hamsters. There was no shortage of pets at her house. Other activities she enjoyed included hiking, fishing, motorcycle riding, boating, and riding in fast cars. She was fearless and would scale rocks that would petrify most people!

Candice was a strong academic student, receiving awards for writing and poetry. She loved to read and draw and her penmanship was truly an art. She was chosen to speak on behalf of the agriculture club. Her employers acknowledged her strengths and diligence with recognition awards.

Candice was born to a remarkable mother who was a strong supporter through all of life’s challenges. They enjoyed gardening, long walks, rollerblading, bike riding, and the sudden spurts of energy to run. She and her mom enjoyed going out dancing with friends. When Candice moved out of the area they enjoyed long conversations on the phone and traveled to see each other.

Being closest in age, Candice had a special relationship with her comedic brother, Freddie. They shared close mutual friends and lots of memories. Candice wasn’t able to spend as much time with her oldest sister, Angela, as they lived far apart. Nevertheless, they immensely enjoyed their time having fun together including working out over the phone. They often spoke and stayed close remotely. Catrina was the sister who Candice went to as a child for comfort, often sleeping in her bedroom. As adults, they enjoyed spending time together when possible.

Although Candice was challenged with many health issues, she never let that stop her. She faced those difficulties with perseverance and a hope to thrive with a brighter future. She believed in never quitting and dealing with every challenge head-on. Candice was open and honest about her mental health struggles that started in her teenage years. She knew her personal struggles caused pain to others. She always tried to make amends and was known for going above and beyond to help anyone in need. Not only that, but she loved to brighten someone’s day just because she could. She had a servant’s heart! When asked if someone could do something for her, she would say a smoothie or coffee would be nice.

Her deep regard and faith for God were growing through her study of the Bible. Many members of her congregation became lifelong friends.

Her family was blessed to have an extraordinary visit days before she passed which included many of her extended family ranging in age from five to ninety-four. It is a memory that will be held close to our hearts forever. Family and friends deeply loved her and will miss her.

Her ashes are being cared for alongside her father’s ashes, in the home of her mother in Eureka.

A celebration of life will be held on February 23, 2025, at the Elks Lodge at 2 p.m. Event Venue: 445 Herrick Avenue, Eureka, CA 95503.