James Ralph Connell

Mr. James Ralph Connell, 90, passed away on June 28, 2021 after an extended illness. Ralph was a loving husband, a loyal brother, and a role model and friend to many nieces and nephews. He leaves behind a host of friends across the country, and he will be greatly missed. He was born in Birmingham, Alabama on November 4, 1930, and was a long-time resident of the ACIPCO community, where he developed many lifelong friendships. He graduated from Phillips High School, class of 1949, and from Birmingham Southern College, class of 1953. Following is graduation from college, Ralph joined the United States Air Force where he served in the U.S. Air Force Signal Corps in Japan. After completion of his Air Force service, he worked in logistics for Illinois Central Railroad. Mr. Connell is survived by Jane Ginn Connell, his wife of 53 years - all of them filled with travel, creating memories with friends, and celebrating life with their families. He also leaves behind his brother, Frederick Connell, and many loving nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Wilson Connell, Sr., and his brother, John Connell. A visitation for family and friends will begin at 10:00 a.m. July 1, 2021 at Elmwood Chapel Funeral Home with graveside services and burial following at 11:00 a.m. at Elmwood Cemetery.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.johnsridoutselmwoodchapel.com for the Connell family.