Constance "Connie" Tallon

Constance "Connie" Viva Cash Tallon, 83, of Chapin and formerly of Neosho, Missouri, died Tuesday, June 23, 2026 at her home, surrounded by her family.

Born on June 9, 1943 in Tacoma, Washington, she was a daughter of the late Herman Floyd and Viva Griffith Cash.

Constance lived a life rich with adventure and service. As a child, she moved all over the country while her parents were employed at several state hospitals. The adventures she shared with her sister could inspire a movie.

Constance earned her undergraduate degree from Drury College in Springfield, Missouri, and taught school for several years before being commissioned as an officer in the United States Air Force. Having grown up in a military family, she took great pride in serving her country.

While stationed at Big Spring, Texas, Constance met her husband, Thomas, and together they began building a family. During those early years of marriage and motherhood, she earned her master’s degree in Special Education.

After Thomas’s death, Constance moved to Neosho, Missouri to be closer to family. Later in life, Constance relocated to Chapin, South Carolina, where she spent her retirement close to loved ones.

Independent, reliable, and joyful, Constance embraced life with energy and enthusiasm. She enjoyed gardening and remained active and on the go, rarely content to sit still. Whether running errands, traveling, or simply staying busy, she valued her independence.

More than anything, Constance cherished time with her family. She was a devoted and exceptional mother and grandmother whose love, warmth, and steady presence brought immense joy to her family. These family bonds remained the center of her life and deeply important to her until the very end.

She is survived by her children, Robert Tallon, Barbara Bodie (Craig), and Sandra Gauron; and her grandchildren, Campbell, Cash, Brynn, Thomas, and Emory.

In addition to her parents, she is predeceased by her husband, Major Thomas James Tallon, and her sister, Catherine McCain.

Private family interment will take place in the Independent Order of the Odd Fellows cemetery in Neosho, Missouri at a future date.

Memories and messages may be shared with the family on her tribute page at whitakerfuneralhome.com

Whitaker Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Constance Cash Tallon.