Darcy Connolly-Brunner, mother of former WNBA player Sophie Brunner, tragically passed away in a head-on collision. Read about her life and legacy as a mother, social worker, and community member.
Darcy Connolly-Brunner, the mother of former WNBA star and Arizona State basketball standout Sophie Brunner, has tragically passed away at the age of 61. She was killed in a devastating head-on collision on August 9, 2025, in Stephenson County, Illinois, leaving behind a lasting legacy as a mother, social worker, and beloved member of her community.
The fatal crash occurred on Illinois Route 26 North near Oneco Road in rural Orangeville, where a Nissan Altima driven by 30-year-old Rolando Ico-Choc, a Guatemalan national residing in Freeport, crossed into the northbound lane. Ico-Choc’s vehicle collided head-on with the Ford Edge driven by Connolly-Brunner. Both drivers were pronounced dead at the scene, and no other passengers were involved in the crash.
Authorities have noted that Ico-Choc, who was in the U.S. illegally and had a history of multiple DUI offenses, may have been impaired during the crash. Toxicology tests were conducted during autopsies, but the results are still pending. The Illinois State Police Traffic Crash Reconstruction Unit is assisting with the investigation, while the community mourns the loss of a woman who impacted so many lives.
A Life of Service and Compassion
Darcy Connolly-Brunner was known for her deep commitment to social services. Born in Manchester, Iowa, on August 27, 1963, she earned her bachelor’s degree in social work from the University of Dubuque in 1985. She worked for various organizations throughout her career, including Rosecrance, Rockford Memorial Hospital, and the Monroe Clinic, before opening her own practice, Counseling for Change, in Freeport.
Her professional life was marked by a passion for helping others, and her dedication to improving the lives of those she served earned her the admiration of both colleagues and clients alike. Connolly-Brunner’s kindness and willingness to lend a helping hand to anyone in need made her an invaluable member of her community.
Outside of her professional achievements, Connolly-Brunner was an avid adventurer who cherished family moments. She enjoyed snowmobiling with her husband, Thomas Brunner, and shared countless adventures with her children: Sophie, Ellen, Gabrielle, and Heath. The family’s strong bond was evident in their shared laughter, love of music, and the joy they found in one another’s company.
A Loving Mother and Grandmother
As a mother, Connolly-Brunner was devoted to her children and proud of their accomplishments. Sophie Brunner, her daughter, rose to prominence as a standout basketball player at Aquin High School, leading the team to state championships. Sophie went on to play for Arizona State University and had a successful professional career, including stints with the Phoenix Mercury and San Antonio Stars.
Though she may not have known everything about sports, Connolly-Brunner was a constant presence at her children’s events, supporting them unconditionally. “She would do anything for her kids, and that’s what made her a great mother,” said longtime friend Colleen Finn-Henze. “Her family meant the world to her.”
Connolly-Brunner’s legacy as a devoted mother, social worker, and friend will live on through her children and all who knew her. Her outgoing personality, humor, and compassion made her someone everyone could count on. Friends and family remember her not only for her work but also for the warmth and laughter she brought to every moment.
A Community in Mourning
The loss of Darcy Connolly-Brunner has left a profound impact on the Freeport community. Friends, neighbors, and local officials are deeply grieving her passing. SCSO Sheriff Steven Stovall spoke of the void left by Connolly-Brunner, describing her as someone who “meant more to the community than just her role within it.”
Colleen Finn-Henze, who shared a deep bond with Connolly-Brunner for over 40 years, reflected on the difficult loss: “She was hilariously funny, compassionate, and a great friend. She was the kind of person who would do anything for you.” Finn-Henze also expressed gratitude for the final moments she spent with her friend, which included breakfast, a visit to a record store, and a night together just hours before the tragic accident.
Remembering a Life Well-Lived
Connolly-Brunner’s life and legacy will be remembered for the love she gave, the lives she touched, and the joy she shared with her family. In her eulogy, it was emphasized that she will be cherished for her fun-loving spirit, remarkable strength, and unforgettable sense of humor.
Her family and friends encourage everyone to pause and appreciate the beauty of life, just as Darcy did, and to add a touch of that beauty to the world around them in her honor. She leaves behind a lasting imprint on the hearts of all who knew her.
