The staff and elected officials of Plymouth City Council are saddened to learn of the passing of Ralph V Morrell, former Lord Mayor from 1981 to 1982, and Deputy Lord Mayor from 1971 to 1972.
Ralph was elected to the Council in June 1961 and served for over 30 years, first representing Crownhill Ward and later Eggbuckland Ward.
He took a keen interest in education and was for many years Vice Chairman of Plymouth Education Committee. Ralph also served as Governor to Plymouth College of Further Education and Plymouth College of Art and Design. He held the chairmanship of the Finance Committee, was Conservative Party Whip and later Deputy Leader of the Conservative Party of Plymouth City Council.
Ralph represented the city on the South West Arts Committee and was the founder and chairman of Plymouth’s Professional Theatre Company, an active member of the trust and management committee, the chairman of the Council’s theatre sub-committee and a nominated member of the Theatre Royal Trust, all throughout his impressive and dedicated career.
Councillor Sue Dann, Lord Mayor of Plymouth, said: “Ralph Morrell was a well-respected member of the Council.
“He was very dedicated and passionate about the people of Plymouth, and helped many throughout his life with devotion and integrity. Our thoughts are with those that loved and knew him at this difficult time.”
A Service of Thanksgiving to remember and celebrate his life will be held on Friday 3 March at Emmanuel Church, Mannamead at 2pm.