Willard Cornelius

Kenneth was born in Iredell County on September 20, 1933 to the late Ralph Cornelius and Lillian Cornelius. Kenneth bravely and honorably served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War. Kenneth married his wife, Geraldine Johnson on June 22, 1958. They were together 56 years until her passing. In his spare time, he enjoyed being outdoors gardening and fishing. He is also a lifelong member of New Salem United Methodist Church in Statesville.

Willard is preceded in death by his parents, wife, daughter, Deborah Lynn Lackey, sister, Sadie Freeze, brothers, Gene Cornelius and Elbert Cornelius.

Left to cherish his memory is his son, Willard “Kenny” Cornelius II (Sheryl) of Statesville; Daughters, Cynthia Wagner (Joseph) of Statesville, and Virginia Ann Anderson(Eddie) of North Wilkesboro, North Carolina; sister, Carolyn Johnson of Winston Salem, North Carolina; 9 Grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren and 2 great great grand children.

A funeral service will be held at 2PM Friday, January 5, 2024 at New Salem United Methodist Church in Statesville North Carolina With burial to follow at the church cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers the family as donations be made to Hospice and Palliative Care of Iredell County, 2347 Simonton Road, Statesville, NC 28625 .