Christine Noel Connelly

Christine "Christi" Noel (Jacobs) Connelly Christine "Christi" Noel (Jacobs) Connelly passed away peacefully at the age of 59 on April 11, 2026, embraced by her devoted and loving husband and her beloved sons. Christi was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on December 29, 1966, to John and Constance (Neverman) Jacobs. She graduated from Edgewood High School in Madison, Wisconsin, in 1985 and earned her degree in Physical Therapy from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1990. In 1992, Christi married her best friend in life, Dr. Steven Mark Connelly. Together they built a beautiful life centered on faith and family, sharing countless adventures hiking, biking, exploring national parks, and especially cherishing their time in Arizona. Christi worked for many years as a physical therapist, personal trainer, and aerobics instructor, bringing energy, encouragement, and compassion to all those she served. Christi's greatest joys were her sons, Shane (Alexandra) Connelly, Ryan (Sydney) Connelly, and Kyle (Allison) Connelly, and her treasured grandchildren, Benson, Noah, and Adelyn. She is survived by her mother, Connie Jacobs; her siblings, Anastasia "Stacey" Jacobs, Donald Jacobs (Carrie Drephal), and Jason (Alicia) Jacobs; along with many nieces, nephews, and extended family members. She was preceded in death by her father, John "Jake" Jacobs, and her father-in-law, Dr. Mark V. Connelly. Christi's family and many friends will remember her for her radiant smile, easy laughter, and selfless generosity. She believed that to live a fulfilled life and face its challenges, one needed faith, family, and gratitude for all things. Christi's love for Jesus and trust in His grace were at the very core of who she was-her driving force in serving others and in weathering the storm of cancer. Anchored in God's Word, she sought to reflect His grace in all she did-raising and guiding her family, teaching children at Bible Study Fellowship, walking alongside fellow sufferers, celebrating holidays, and sharing meals with family and friends. She pointed to Him in all she said, did, prayed, and endured. One of Christi's most treasured passages of Scripture was: "So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison..." 2 Corinthians 4:16-17 This verse beautifully reflects how Christi approached the last seven-plus years of her life while enduring lung cancer. Though her earthly body was changing, she knew her inner self was being renewed each day and prepared for eternal life in the arms of her loving Savior. Her family is exceptionally grateful for the angelic care provided by the entire team at NC Little Hospice in Edina, Minnesota. In lieu of flowers, friends and family wishing to honor Christi's memory may make donations in her name to: NC Little Hospice 7019 Lynmar Lane Edina, MN 55345 Celebration of Life Friday, May 1, 2026 Visitation at 10:00 a.m. Celebration Service at 11:00 a.m. Lunch to Follow Westwood Community Church 3121 Westwood Drive Excelsior, MN

Christine Noel Connelly

December 29, 1966 - April 11, 2026

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