James Cornell

James “Duke” Cornell, 85, of Mansfield, Ohio passed away at his home on Saturday, December 18, 2021. He was born on March 19, 1936 in Fayette County, Ohio to the late Emil and Opal (Dove) Cornell.

Jim worked at Taylor Plating and later retired from Madison Childcare Center as a custodian in 2001. He was a John Wayne fan and loved to play the lottery, especially going to the casinos where he’d always have a Michelob Ultra. Jim enjoyed walking on the bike trail and met multiple people, many who he had become great friends with; they even built a bench with his name engraved on it that can be found along the trail. Jim loved his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and cherished the many wonderful memories they all shared together. He married Brenda Cornell on January 4, 1962.

Jim is survived by his children, Jamie (Randy) Hutchinson, Lorri (Ron) Lewis, Michael Cornell and Bryan (Lisa Lookabaugh) Cornell; his beloved furbaby, Lily; grandchildren, Brandy (Matthew) Grove, Tabitha (Bruce) Crawford, Amanda (Adam) Sauder, Michael Cornell, Paige (Matt) Long, Nicole (Zach) Kimble, Megan Rollins and Travis Cornell; 21 great-grandchildren; sister, Pauline Frazee; and numerous nieces and nephews including a special niece, “the crazy lady next door”, Carolyn “Dumpy” Evans. Also his special neighbors, Chris and Aimee Porter.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Brenda, who passed August 15, 2015; brothers, Gene Cornell and Herb Cornell; and sister, Betty “Red” Henderson.

A private celebration of life for family will be held at a later date. The Diamond Street Home of Wappner Funeral Directors is honored to serve the family. Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Richland County.

The post James Cornell appeared first on Wappner Funeral Directors and Crematory.