Sallie Sullivan Connell

Sallie Sullivan Connell passed away on September 9th, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of warmth and kindness. She was the loving mother of Kelly Connell and Amy Connell-Donohue (Kevin), and the adored grandmother of Emerson, Connell, Sullivan, and Elizabeth (Ellis) Donohue. She is survived by her sister Ruth, brothers Joe and Richard, and many loving nieces and nephews.

A native of Mobile, Sallie was born on July 5, 1941, to Ruth and Joseph Sullivan. After attending Bishop-Toolen High School, she ventured north and graduated summa cum laude from Maryville University in St. Louis, Missouri. Soon after, she met and married Jack Connell. For the next 23 years, they lived in New York City before moving to Lake Forest, Illinois, where they raised their two daughters.

In 1985, Sallie returned to Mobile and began her 36-year career as "The Church Lady" at Spring Hill Presbyterian Church. She had a steadfast work ethic and unwavering loyalty, forming unique relationships with each member of the congregation, who often visited the church just to see her smiling face. Sallie retired this year, having been a beacon of love and support for the entire congregation.

Sallie had many passions and numerous talents. As a young woman, she was a distinguished swimmer and diver, earning many awards for her skills in the water. She mastered the piano at a young age and could play any song by ear. She was unbeatable at Trivial Pursuit and an outstanding racquetball player, triumphing over every opponent along the North Shore of Chicago. Sallie was also a baker, a gardener, a history buff, and a huge sports fan—Sundays were for football. She was happiest when spending time with her family, sipping a screwdriver in a short glass.

Sallie walked through life with unconditional love, strength of spirit, unending generosity, and faith in the mercy of God.

A Memorial Mass celebrating Sallie's life will be held this Saturday, September 14th, 2024, at St. Ignatius Catholic Church, 3704 Spring Hill Avenue, Mobile, AL 36608, at 10:00 AM. Visitation will be held beforehand at 9:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Williams Syndrome Association, 342 Broadway Drive #9188, Newark, NJ 07104 or online at www.williams-syndrome.org/donate and St. Ignatius Catholic Church. Condolences may be offered at www.radneyfuneralhome-mobile.com.