Connie Brinker

Connie Brinker, a cherished member of her community and a dedicated professional, passed away on December 27,2024, in Riverside, California, at the age of 96. Born on July 15, 1928, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Connie's compassionate spirit and vibrant personality left an indelible mark on all who knew her.

Throughout her life, Connie was a passionate cosmetologist who operated her own salon for many years. Her talents extended beyond beauty, as she was also a certified graphoanalyst and forensic document examiner. Connie proudly testified in courts of law, making significant contributions through her work—an accomplishment she held dear.

Connie was known for her love of learning; she was a life-long learner, continuously pursuing new knowledge and skills. Everything she engaged in during her adult education classes blossomed into hobbies that enriched her life. Her whole life she set her goals high and strived hard to achieve them, always to begin again with new ones. Her enthusiasm for life was infectious. She had an extraordinary ability to connect with people, never meeting a stranger and always uncovering common interests with others.

Her heart was greatly devoted to her family. Connie treasured the memories shared with her loved ones and was especially proud of her children: Richard (Suzanne) Brinker, Craig (Cindie) Brinker, and Randy (Roseann) Brinker. She leaves behind a legacy in the form of her grandchildren, Jeffrey Brinker, Geanna Cheser, Melysa Carpenter, Christopher Brinker, Kim Brinker, Scott Brinker, Billy Brinker, and Brian Brinker, along with several great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews who will carry forth her warmth and kindness. Connie received extraordinary care and attention in her final years from her devoted granddaughter, Geanna whose devotion was priceless.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 52 years, Robert W. Brinker, as well as her daughter, Susan Adela Ford, and son, John Robert Brinker. Connie also rejoins her parents, Edward J. Juge Sr. and Faustine Aleman Juge, as well as her siblings: Edward J. Juge Jr., Mary Ann Magee, Charles Juge, and Robert Juge. 

Connie served her community for many years, dedicating herself to various volunteer roles that included being a Cub Scout Den Mother, volunteered at Anaheim Regional Medical Center for more than 18 years, and a member of the Fullerton Neighborhood Watch. She was also dedicated to serving the Lord and was an active member of St. Philip Benizi Catholic Church since 1964, where she was very involved with the St. Vincent De Paul food pantry and the Secular Order Servants of Mary. Her commitment to serving others was a testament to her nurturing nature.

A funeral service to honor Connie's life and legacy will be held on January 16, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Forest Lawn - Cypress - Hope Chapel, located at 4471 Lincoln Avenue, Cypress, CA 90630. Friends and family are welcome to gather together to celebrate the remarkable life of a woman who made an everlasting impact on her loved ones and her community. The service will also be available via livestream webcast at https://forestlawn.livecontrol.tv/b8cbb1c7 In lieu of flowers, you can donate in her memory to Apostolic Oblates, 205 S. Pine Drive, Fullerton, CA 92833, or St. Vincent De Paul c/o St. Philip Benizi Catholic Church, 235 S. Pine Dr. Fullerton, CA 92833.