Cornel Brantley

Cornel, the ninth child of Sidney and Lizzie S. Brantley, was born at Martland Medical Center in Newark, NJ, on January 1, 1959. With his silky black hair, he was a joyful addition to the family. From a young age, Cornel displayed a natural curiosity, adventurous spirit, and a willingness to take risks. As a child, he became known for his ability to fix small appliances and electronic devices. As an adult, he transitioned to mechanical work, all without formal training. Cornel received most of his education in the public schools of Newark, NJ. However, his family relocated to Estill, SC, in 1975, where he completed the last 2 ½ years of high school, graduating from Estill High School in May 1977. While in high school, Cornel was actively involved in the athletic program. After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Navy on May 18, 1977, and was stationed in Jacksonville, FL. Following his honorable discharge, he joined the U.S. Army on December 26, 1978, and was stationed in Honolulu, Hawaii, where he was honorably discharged on February 8, 1980.
Throughout his life, Cornel held various occupations. He worked at Savannah River Site as a construction helper and contributed to the construction of the Hampton Regional Medical Center. Additionally, he worked as an insurance agent for Combine Insurance. His final profession was as a self-employed mechanic.
Cornel was raised in the church, attending Zion Holy Church in Newark, NJ, from birth until 1975. After the family moved to Estill, SC, he became a member of St. John Holy Church, where he worshipped until he enlisted in the service. In the early 2000s, Cornel joined New Hope Baptist Church in Varnville, SC, and later transferred his membership to Efferson Baptist Church. In April 2018, he returned to his family's roots and rejoined St. John Holy Church. Cornel had a deep love for singing, and two of his favorite songs were "I Won't Complain," written by Reverend Paul Jones, and "Precious Lord."
While every man's life ultimately ends in the same way, it is the details of how he lived and how he died that set each person apart. Today, we gather to celebrate the life of a son, a brother, a husband, a father, and a grandfather. In this brief moment, we reflect on the life of a man whose journey was marked by both trials and triumphs. I've Had Some Good Days
In 1980, Cornel married his high school sweetheart, Margaret O'Banner, and together they had one son, Marcus. In August 1992, Cornel married Mamie Scott, and to this union, three children were born: Alicia Janee, Cornel Sidney, and Di'Andre Jessie. During these happy years, Cornel often treated his family to lavish southern Sunday meals that he lovingly prepared. He placed great emphasis on the importance of education and academics, and he was proud to see all of his children graduate from high school. Cornel took immense pride in Marcus, his eldest son, who earned his CDL and started his own business. He was filled with joy seeing Marcus become a devoted father and grandfather. He also celebrated when his daughter began her career with the BOP and was overjoyed in May 2023 when he walked her down the aisle to marry his son-in-love, Casey Rivers. Alicia and Casey's daughters, Camira and Emily, adored their "Papa". He beamed with pride when his son, Cornel Sidney, earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering. Later, when Sidney married Parris, Cornel felt blessed to gain a second daughter. The pride in his heart only grew when his youngest son received his CDL, adding to the happiness he already felt from his children's accomplishments. I've Had Some Hills To Climb
One of Cornel's greatest trials came when his wife, Mamie, was diagnosed with cancer and fought the illness for over a year. During this time, Cornel became the caregiver not only for Mamie but also for their three children. Mamie's courageous battle with cancer ended in 2004, leaving Cornel to raise their three young children, ages 10, 9, and 6, on his own. Despite the immense challenges he faced, Cornel took on this responsibility with unwavering dedication and love. I've Had Some Weary Days Cornel's youngest son, Di'Andre, battled chronic Sickle Cell Anemia, spending much of his childhood in and out of medical facilities. Through it all, Cornel was there for him, unwavering in his commitment as a father. In April 2023, Di'Andre's health took a turn for the worse as he became terminally ill, enduring a three-month ordeal of frequent hospitalizations. Once again, Cornel stood by his side, offering support and love throughout his suffering. Cornel was there with Di'Andre when he peacefully transitioned on June 2, 2023. I've Had Some Sleepless Nights Raising three young children presented its own set of challenges and, at times, felt overwhelming for Cornel. Recognizing the need for help, especially with Alicia's hair, he made the difficult decision to move to Hampton to be closer to his sisters, who he knew would be there to assist him.
While things initially went smoothly, misfortune struck when his house was partially burned, forcing him to find a new place to live. Cornel purchased a new home for his family and relocated to the Nixville area. But once again, tragedy struck-his new home was consumed by fire, destroying everything except for three bibles he had in the house. Though it was a difficult time, Cornel didn't give up. He found the strength to purchase another home and continued his mission of raising his children. Through sheer determination, he succeeded in guiding his children to adulthood. Lord, Why So Much Pain ?
Cornel's battle with illness began in 2024 when he started losing significant amounts of blood and was later diagnosed with blood-eating cancer. Along with this devastating diagnosis, he faced additional health struggles, including a loss of mobility, strength, and weight. Despite these challenges, Cornel fought fiercely until the very end. He spent time in and out of various medical facilities, yet through it all, he maintained a strong resolve, determined to fight as long as he could. He Knows What's Best For Me, I Won't Complain "Although I would have liked to stay a little longer, 'He Knows What's Best For Me, So I Won't Complain.' I have been blessed to raise my children. They are grown, self-sufficient, and thriving. My children know that I love them, and I know they love me. They have always stood by me, and my family has been a constant source of support. God has been good to me." Precious Lord Take My Hand. When you are tossed by the storms and winds of life, it is okay to ask the Lord to take your hand. Late at night on February 26, Cornel asked the doctor, "How much time do I have?" His pain came to an end early the next morning, February 27, 2025. Before he passed, Cornel told the nurse, "I'm tired, I'm going to sleep." He closed his eyes, and within five minutes, he transitioned peacefully. Lead Me On To The Light "And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever". Revelation 22:5
Cornel was preceded in death by his devoted wife, Mamie Scott Brantley; his dear son, Di'Andre Jessie Brantley; his loving parents, Sidney and Elder Lizzie Brantley; his siblings, Willie and Donnell Brantley, and Annette Hays; his father and mother-in-love, Jessie and Carrie M. Scott; his nieces, Pam Love and Erica Ellis; and his brothers in-love, Rodell Cylear, William Thomas, Larry, Marion, and David Scott.
Cherishing his memories and awaiting the coming of Christ are his son, Marcus Brantley of Estill, SC; daughter, Alicia (Casey) Rivers of Barnwell, SC; son, Cornel Sidney (Parris) Brantley of Greenville, SC; grandchildren, Hillary, Alera, Honey, Marcez, Sean, Camira, and Emily; one great-grandchild, Ky'Loni; bonus children, Jasmine Brantley and Kalif Williams; brother, Kenneth (Belinda) Brantley of Allentown, PA; sisters, Jeanice B. Cylear of Hampton, SC, Jacqueline (Avery) Early of Varnville, SC, Ruth Thomas, and Patricia (Joe) Moore of Estill, SC; aunts, Ada Williams, Catherine Brantley, and Lenora Jacobs; uncles, James (Nancy) Smith and Lloyd (Minnie) Brantley; sisters-in-love, Vicki (David) Halls, Gail Jefferson, Nancy, Edna, and Trudy O'Banner, Sylvia, Vickie, and Connie Scott; brothers-in-love, Joe (Julia) Scott, Alex (Jacqueline) Scott, Robert Scott, Harold Scott; special nephew, Reed Cylear; and special great-nephews, Mason Armstrong and Myles Hays; nieces, Lashonda (Clayton), Katrina, Chanta, Donnella, Dominique (Fabricio), Shanna (Damien), Andretta, and Whitney (Dyshun); nephews, Eugene (Ni'Ya), Corey, Terrell, Kendell, Kevin, Rashad (Tiffney), and Shane; along with a host of great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and other family members and friends.
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