Ruth McConnell Obituary

Ruth L. McConnell

August 2, 2025

JOHNSON CITY - Ruth L. McConnell died peacefully on Saturday, August 2, 2025 at Lakebridge Healthcare, a rehabilitation and skilled nursing center in Johnson City.

Ruth was a native of the Jearoldstown Community in Greene County, and resided most of her life in Johnson City. She graduated from Baileyton High School in Greene County. Ruth moved to Johnson City to attend Johnson City Business College. After college she worked at Southern Maid. While there she met the love of her life, Edward Renfro McConnell. Ruth was a loving companion for sixty-five years to her late husband. They enjoyed many winters at Saddlebag Lake Resort in Lake Wales, Florida.

She retired from Sears, Roebuck & Co., Johnson City. Ruth was a member of Central Baptist Church, where she was a member of the Joy Choir and Esther Sunday School Class.

In addition to her parents, the late Allie Quinten Lucas and Vergie Emeline Mullins Lucas Thornburg, Ruth was preceded in death by her husband, Edward Renfro McConnell, in 2012, two brothers, and four sisters.

She is survived by her daughter, Patricia Norton and husband Dana Norton, Greeneville; her son, Thomas Edward McConnell and wife Tina Tolley McConnell, Knoxville; one sister, Jo Lucas Rodgers and husband Dale Rodgers, Baileyton; several nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to thank Amedisys Home Health, Amedisys Hospice, Blue Ridge Home Health, Caregivers Connie McCamey, Jamie Humbert, Tammie Hensley, Angie Boles, Kim Hensley, Wilma Strong, and Joe & Elizabeth Willingham.

The graveside funeral service will be held Friday, August 8, 2025, at 2:00 P.M., at Monte Vista Memorial Park, with Rev. Paul Farrior, officiating.

The family will receive friends Friday prior to the service from 12:30-1:30 P.M. in the East Parlor of Appalachian Funeral Home.

Flowers are welcome, however, memorials may be made to Central Baptist Church Music Department, 300 N. Roan St., Johnson City, TN 37601, or Johnson City Public Library, 100 W. Millard St., Johnson City, TN 37604.

Memories and condolences may be shared at www.appfh.net.

Appalachian Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 800 E. Watauga Ave., Johnson City, TN, is honored to serve the McConnell family. (423)928-6111