Roberta C. Cornell

Roberta Cornell Obituary
Roberta Carol Cornell, age 88, passed away on November 30, 2023, in Shrewsbury, New Jersey. She was born on January 4, 1935, in Brooklyn, New York to Rose and Philip Salerno. Roberta was the beloved wife of the late Robert Cornell and cherished companion of Bill Rymer, who preceded her in death.
Roberta was a fun-loving and kind individual who truly enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. She had a vibrant personality and left a lasting impression on everyone she met.
Roberta is survived by her loving sister, Janet Calbi and her daughter, Carole Minty, along with her son-in-law, Mark Minty. She is also survived by her son, Robert Cornell Jr., and daughter-in-law, Cathy Cornell, as well as her daughter, Robin Polara, and her partner, David Shinn. Roberta's granddaughter, Kelley Minty and grandson, Mark Minty, along with his wife, Ashlee, carry her memory in their hearts. She is also survived by her grandsons, Robert Cornell III, Andrew Cornell, and Douglas Cornell, along with their respective partners, Allie, Penelope, and Gabby. Roberta's great-grandchildren, Robbie, Caden, Lilah Jane and Tommy Jean brought immense joy to her life. Additionally, she is survived by Kyle Rymer, the son of her long-time companion, and his wife, Susan, along with their daughters, Tori Ann and Karli. Jennifer, Roberta's long-time caregiver, will forever hold a special place in her heart. Roberta was preceded in death by her parents, Rose and Philip Salerno, her aunt, Lucy Petriw, and her nephew, Philip Calbi.
Roberta attended Long Island High School and later operated Cornell's Cleaners ; a local business in West End established by her late husband. She later entered a career as a Budget Analyst for the Federal Government at Fort Monmouth from 1979 to 2006. Her dedication and hard work made a lasting impact on her colleagues and the organization she served.
In her younger years, Roberta was actively involved in serving her community by volunteering for a number of organizations. In her free time she enjoyed various hobbies, including going to the beach, attending Broadway shows, horseracing and spending Winters in Florida. These activities brought her immense joy and allowed her to create lasting memories with her loved ones.
Roberta Cornell was a remarkable individual who touched the lives of many. Her kind and loving nature will be remembered and cherished by all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, warmth, and cherished memories.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, December 7 from 4-7 pm at the Damiano Funeral Home, 191 Franklin Ave in Long Branch. The funeral will held on Friday at 9:30 am at the funeral home with the service to begin at 10 am followed by the interment at Woodbine Cemetery in Oceanport.
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