Richard Franklin Cornwell

Richard Franklin Cornwell, 78, passed away surrounded by love, December 15, 2025. He was born April 16, 1947 in Leesburg Virginia. He lived a life rooted in hard work, love of family, friends and country. He believed deeply in the values which make America great—freedom, responsibility, perseverance, and service to others. There was never doubt in his love. He took immense pride in being a Husband, a Father, PopPop, brother, uncle, cousin, nephew and friend. He was our greatest cheerleader. He embodied what it means to be a father and family man. His devotion came from time with his family. He rarely missed an opportunity to be present, talk, listen, or share a storied memory. Richard never met a stranger or missed an opportunity to say hello to anyone. "RC" was known as the "fastest man on foot or in a car" in Loudoun County. He had a love of fast cars - his favorite was his Corvette ( of which he owned 3 over the years ). He was preceded in death by his "best girl" wife of 48 years, Patsy Cornwell, brother Kelly Cornwell, and parents Alexander Kelly Cornwell Jr. and Frances Garner Cornwell. He is survived by his son Nathaniel S. Chamblin and daughter-in- love Jill Pickett. His pride and joys, his grandchildren, Gracyn Chamblin (Casey Williams), Quinn Pickett, Reid Pickett and Aaron Redfearn. Devoted Brother James Cornwell, "Sister" Pattie Hope, Sister-In-Law Heidi Cornwell, Nieces Tanya Doracak, Erika Youngdahl, Susie Cornwell, Kim Hope. Nephews Danny Schirmann and Dr. William Hope. He will be forever remembered as PopPop, a loving family man, proud American, and most importantly for the love he showed and gave others. To Honor his memory, donate to Tunnel to Towers Foundation , Fisher House Foundation , or FIDF - Friends of the Israel Defense Forces.