James Joseph Connell

James Joseph Connell, 94, entered into the Holy Kingdom of God on Thursday, March 19, 2026 at Thomson-Hood Veterans Center, Wilmore, KY.  He was the son of the late Joseph Thomas and Claire Noel Connell.  He was born in Manchester, New Hampshire on October, 11, 1931.

While still a young boy, the family moved to Old Orchard Beach, Maine.  Upon completing high school, Jim enlisted in the United States Marine Corps on September 29, 1949.  He served in the Korean conflict and the Vietnam War.  After serving as a warrant officer, he was commissioned to Major James Joseph Connell.  After 24 years of active service, he retired with many commendations on July 1, 1973.

After his retirement from the Marine Corps, his family returned to Lexington, Kentucky, where he taught electrical engineering technology  in the community college system.   He became life long friends with many of his students and fellow instructors.

During his free time, he enjoyed many outdoor activities, especially snow skiing and water sports.  He practiced indoor and outdoor marksmanship.  He loved his computer and HO-gauge train set.  Ballroom dancing was also very special to Jim throughout his lifetime.  He was a true hobbyist.

Mr. Connell is survived by his loving wife, Barbara, of 34 years.  He is also survived by his son; William Randall Connell and step-sons; Albert Clifton Burgess, Jr. and James Key Hatterick; grandson Albert "Diego" Burgess; sister, Joan Erickson and a host of nieces, nephews and many loved family members.  He will be dearly missed by all.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Elizabeth Nunley Connell, his beloved son, James Nunley Connell and brother-in-law, Donn Erickson.

Jim leaves a legacy of living his life with humility, kindness, thoughtfulness, love for his families and always caring for others.  He had a life well lived.

A celebration of life will be at Clark Legacy Center, 601 East Brannon Road, Nicholasville, KY, on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at 1 P.M. with full military honors.  An inurnment will take place at Lexington Cemetery in the office columbarium immediately following the military honors.

The Connell family expresses sincere gratitude to the chaplain and all nurses, doctors, and staff at Thomson-Hood Veteran Center.

To all service men throughout the world and to all fellow Marines, past, present and future, Jim says one last time, Semper Fi!

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you can make a donation in memory of Jim to: Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's research.  Grand Central Station, P.O. Box 4777, New York, NY 10163 or a charity of your choice.