James Edward Cornell Jr.

James Edward Cornell Jr.

February 16, 1935 – November 16, 2025

  James Edward Cornell Jr., age 90, a lifelong resident of Romeo went to be with the Lord on Sunday November 16, 2025. He passed away at home with his family by his side. Jim was born to James & Irene (Hayward) Cornell Sr, on February 16, 1935 in Brown City, MI. Jim grew up in Brown City with his parents and 2 siblings. He started working with the Chrysler Corp at 18 years old where he traveled from Brown City to Sterling Heights for work. He met Betty Ann Decker in Grayling while on a hunting trip and they married on October 12, 1957 in Grayling, MI. He was drafted and served in the Army from 1957-1959 serving most of his time in Germany. After being discharged from the Army he went back to work at Chrysler where he worked for over 35 years. He retired young and enjoyed over 34 years of retirement. During his lifetime and into retirement he enjoyed many hobbies such as snowmobiling, hunting, fishing, traveling, camping, trying new restaurants, model railroading, woodworking, listening to bluegrass music, attending tractor pulls, car shows, train shows, helping his family with car repairs, and anything they needed fixing. A lifelong lover of motorcycles, he had a Harley Davidson named “Grampa’s Toy” and would ride it on the weekends when the weather was nice but never to work. Most of all he loved spending time with his family. If he was asked if he wanted to go somewhere he always said yes even though he might not always feel up to it because he wanted to make more memories with the ones he loved.

  He is survived by his three children, Vickie (Lee) Verbouw of Romeo, Carl Cornell of Washington Twp., Craig Cornell of Romeo; three grandchildren, Amanda (Sean) Barnes of Hendersonville, TN, Shaina (Donnie) Wright of Plymouth, Caleb Verbouw of Romeo, and two great grandchildren, Landon Barnes, & Ella Barnes of Hendersonville, TN. He is also survived by his brother, Richard (Lynne) Cornell of Kimball, and his sister Karen Smith of Sandusky. In addition, he is survived by numerous nieces & nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Ann Cornell and his parents, James & Irene Cornell. Jim had a very close relationship with his children and grandchildren. He will be incredibly missed by his family and everyone who knew him.

  Cremation has taken place. Rather than a funeral service a celebration of life party will be held at a later date. Details regarding the celebration will be shared with family and friends.