Constance Evelyn Grisham

December 29, 1940 – May 11, 2025

Connie Grisham passed away peacefully in her sleep on May 11, 2025, in Lafayette, California.

Born Constance Evelyn Telfer to Ralph and Evelyn Telfer, Connie grew up on a farm in Lafayette, Indiana, where she first discovered her lifelong love of music. A talented pianist and organist from a young age, she pursued her passion through her studies at the University of Evansville, Cal State Northridge, and Occidental College.

It was at the University of Evansville where she met her future husband and father of her children. In 1961, Connie moved to California, where she was soon married and began raising her family. She was the proud mother of three children: Geoffrey, Genesa, and Sherry.

Connie dedicated over 40 years of her life to music, most notably as the organist and Director of Music at Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Northridge and St. George’s Episcopal Church in La Cañada, California. Her work there was not only a career but a calling—one that enriched the spiritual and artistic lives of many. It was through this community that she met her beloved life partner, David Rennels, who joined the choir and shared in her deep love of music.

She was also a devoted member of the Los Angeles chapter of the American Guild of Organists, serving in various leadership roles.

Beyond music, Connie was a passionate supporter of the arts, a curious and adventurous traveler, and a gifted cook who brought people together through her hospitality and warmth.

She is survived by her daughters Genesa Wagoner and Sherry Grisham; her cherished grandchildren Jasper Wagoner, Maya Wagoner, Violet Reed, and Estella Reed; and by the many friends, musicians, and parishioners whose lives she touched with grace, creativity, and compassion.

Connie’s life was a beautiful composition of family, art, love and spirituality. She will be deeply missed and joyfully remembered.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations in Connie’s memory to causes close to her heart: the American Red Cross, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), or the Best Friends Animal Society.