RAPID CITY- Connie L. Whitley, 59, passed away Thursday, July 23, 2015 at Rapid City Regional Hospital. Connie was born on June 24, 1956 to Vere and Taletta (Kulhavy) Whitley. She was the youngest of eight children and was a lifelong resident of Rapid City. She graduated from Rapid City High School with her GED. Connie was actively involved with the Special Olympics and has had many achievements and awards for her participation in the organization. Over the years, Connie has received recognition for her involvement in the Rapid City community. She was a resident of Black Hills Works for many years and enjoyed the activities and lifelong friends she made over the years. Connie was very outgoing with a personality that drew many to her. She had friends of all ages. Her faith was very important to her, attending Black Hills Community Church here in Rapid City. Connie was very family oriented and was a joy to her family. On August 13, 2014, former Mayor Sam Kooiker officiated a commitment ceremony for Jim Nelson and Connie. He dedicated August 13, "Jim & Connie day" and gave them the keys to the city. She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers: Dwain M. Whitley, Roger R. Whitley, and Lawrence R. Whitley. Connie is survived by her companion, Jim Nelson, Rapid City; three brothers: Lloyd Whitley, Sioux Falls; Sam (Beverly) Whitley, Grand Junction, CO; Bruce (Rosie) Whitley, Johnstown, CO; sister, Ruth (Jim) Thompson, Garfield, MN; lifetime friend, Nancy Weiss, Rapid City; and numerous nieces and nephews. Celebration of Life services will be at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 25, 2015 at Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home.