Donald Cornell

"Ron" Ronald Lee Cornell, age 66, of Herrin, went to the great spirit in the sky, at 6:30pm, on Friday, November 13, 2015 at Herrin Hospital. Ron was born in Herrin on December 31, 1948 to Richard and Delores (Maxey) Cornell. He honorably served his country from 1967-1969, in the Vietnam conflict. He is a life member of the VFW and a member of the Herrin American Legion. Ron made a career in the telecommunications industry, and was a retired central office installer for Automatic Electric. He is survived by: Mother- Delores Maxey Cornell, Herrin Brother- Gregory and Debbie Cornell, Freeman Spur Sister- Tamara and Stanley Hovenga, Herrin Brother- Curtis and Diana Cornell, Herrin Son- Chris and Crystal Cornell, Herrin Four Grandaughters- Mariah, Kaylin, and Charity Cornell, Herrin, and Elisabeth Cornell, Virgina. Two Grandsons- Kameron Cornell, Virgina and Christian Harris, Marion Close Friends- Dave Aaron, Herrin and Bruce Burris, Marion Ron was preceded in death by his father, Richard Cornell and a son Kyle Cornell. Ron Cornell will forever be remembered for the unconventional and witty man that he was. His sense of humor and ability to always have a joke ready, brought joy to the lives of many. Ron rarely offered advice, choosing instead to live and let live, and was known for his favorite saying "I ain't got a dog in that fight." However, on the rare occasion that he did offer advice, it was to impart wisdom, and he would only say what was on his mind once. Ron was a man known his honesty and integrity. He was loved by everyone he knew for the kind and caring person he was. He absolutely adored his grandchildren, and enjoyed not only spending time with them, but teaching them as well. His love for his family and friends was unconditional, and he has touched the lives of many. He will be greatly missed by all. However, those who knew Ron know that he would not want a fuss made over him. Instead, he would want those he loved to celebrate life and take time to truly see and enjoy what is around them.