Ann Cornell

Ann Thompson Cornell, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend ran into the arms of Jesus on June 6, 2024. Born on November 24, 1950, in Victoria, B.C., Canada, Ann is survived by her beloved and devoted husband of 50 years, Tim Cornell, her loving children Patrick Cornell, Blair (Kat) Cornell, and Sarah (Casey) Holsapple, her cherished grandchildren Caitlin, Carter, Brady, Davis, Henry, Ellis and George, and her sister Ruth (John) Twenty and several nieces and nephews.

Ann graduated from Winamac Community High School in 1969 and went on to attend Butler University, in Indianapolis, where she received a BA degree in education in 1973. While at Butler, Ann was a member of the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority.

Ann was a warrior, battling health issues from the time she was young. She beat cancer twice and fought back after multiple surgeries. Never did she complain, even in the last three years when facing her greatest health challenge that kept her from eating. She was a pillar of strength until her very last breath, which she took surrounded by her entire family.

Ann was a passionate animal lover. She rescued countless animals including a squirrel! The famous “Nelson” lived inside the Cornells' home, riding on Ann’s shoulder and eating cashews from her hands. All animals were precious to Ann, even the ones that belonged in trees!

Ann’s compassion extended beyond her family to all around her. She selflessly gave to others, hosted friends and family in her home and took genuine delight in the success of all she knew, even when facing her own tremendous trials. Ann had an eye for making any space beautiful. This was showcased in her own home, but also magnified when she helped others decorate. She just had that knack for making a house into a home, an event into a celebration.

As a dedicated member of Fairhaven Church, Ann sang in the choir and taught Sunday school to 2^nd grade children. She and Tim were known for their tradition of passing out king-sized candy bars for a month of perfect attendance. Some may have called it bribery, but Ann would do whatever it took to help children know the sweetness of Jesus.

Above all, Ann loved the Lord and her family stood witness to her tender heart for Him. Though Ann didn't understand why she faced her health challenges, she never doubted God's love for her. Ann’s greatest comfort was knowing that all three of her children also knew Jesus.

Ann’s body is now fully restored in the presence of her Savior. The void Ann leaves will never be filled, but her family and friends will forever cherish memories of her spending time on the beaches of Sanibel Island, in the mountains in Colorado and, most often, at home, around the pool, with Tim, her kids and grandchildren.

Funeral services for Ann Cornell will be held on Friday, June 14, 2024, at Fairhaven Church, located at 637 E Whipp Rd, Centerville, OH 45459. Visitation will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., followed by a reverential service at 11:00 a.m.

In these moments of grief, let us come together to celebrate the life of Ann Cornell. A woman whose strength defied human capacity; a woman whose love and light will continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew her. May she watch over us now in a perfectly restored state, free from sickness and pain. And may she rest in eternal peace.

In lieu of flowers, please feel welcome to make a donation to JoyRide Cars. JoyRide Cars is a non profit, started by the Cornell family, that Ann was passionate about.