Ms. Jonnel Southerland, 83, of Arab, Alabama, passed away Thursday, August 20, 2026, at Marshall Medical Center North. Born May 21, 1943, in Morgan County, Alabama, Jonnel was the daughter of John Herman Ryan and Lillie Loe Briscoe Ryan.
Jonnel attended Ryan High School and graduated from Fairview High School with a concentration in bookkeeping. With a lifelong love of creativity and beauty, she later completed floral design coursework at Wallace State Community College. She stood faithfully beside her husband as they owned and operated their construction company for more than 30 years before retiring. A woman of faith and remarkable strength, Jonnel endured six back surgeries and ongoing physical hardship beginning at age 40, meeting every challenge with grace and courage. She is now reunited with her beloved husband, Fred, who passed away in 2022 and whom she longed to see again.
Jonnel especially enjoyed listening to gospel music, including The Booth Brothers, The Inspirations, and The Dixie Echoes. Randy Shelnut and his family were a special source of inspiration to both Jonnel and Fred over the years. Above all, she treasured visits from her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In quieter moments, she enjoyed following Fox News, staying active on Facebook, and keeping in close touch with dear friends through messaging.
Ms. Southerland is survived by her son, Tim Southerland (Tina); daughter, Kellie Hudson; grandchildren, Andrew Hudson (Chandra), Laci Hudson (Jeremy), Hannah Cobbs (Matt), and Luke Southerland (Baylee); great-grandchildren, Gavin Ligon, Garrett Hopkins, Connor Hudson, Emma Cobbs, Colt Cronin, Haven Cobbs, Jackson Hudson, Micah Hudson, Hudson Cobbs, Silas Southerland, and Nitya Hudson; and siblings, June Garrett, Jimmy Ryan, and Dan Ryan.
Ms. Southerland was preceded in death by her husband, Fred Southerland; parents, John and Lillie Ryan; and siblings, Nolan Ryan, Boyd Ryan, Jamie Ryan, Mary Agnes Ransom, and Carolyn Jones.
In lieu of flowers the family request donations to be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
A private service and viewing will be held for the immediate family. Arab Heritage Memorial Chapel is assisting with arrangements.
