Robert James Cornelius

Robert James Cornelius, age 78, of High Springs, FL, passed away suddenly to his heavenly home on Wednesday, April 23, 2025.

Bob was born on August 15, 1946, in Cortland, NY. He grew up in the Marathon area and enjoyed farming, especially the tractors, farm equipment, and animals.

Bob attended Marathon Central School, then attended special classes at BOCES in Cortland where he received training. He worked in janitorial services at SUNY Cortland and later with the Challenge Industries in Ithaca, NY.

After moving to Florida, he had the opportunity to volunteer at Al’z Place, an adult day care, for 25 years where he received certificates for his service. He definitely found his smile there. He found joy in helping others. Recently, he had been enjoying the Alachua County Senior Center riding the bicycle and playing bingo.

He always looked forward to family gatherings, especially Christmas when he could enjoy Luke, Andy, Anna, Clara, and Vivi...and the dogs, cats, and horses.

He is survived by sisters Dorothy and June (Walt), nephew Andy Thon (Anna) and Luke Thon, half-brothers Tom Cornelius, Ted Cornelius, and half-sister Donna White.

He is predeceased by his father James Cornelius and his mother Florence Kurtz Cornelius.

Bob was a member of Hunts Corner Baptist Church in Marathon, NY and later of Calvary Baptist Church in Alachua, FL for over 30 years. Bob loved the Lord, family, and friends. He never met a stranger. He was known for his compassion, being a prayer warrior and touching the lives of others. Because Bob knew the Lord Jesus, we who share his faith, look forward to reuniting with him in heaven.

Funeral services for Bob will be held at the Hunts Corners Baptist Church on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. Burial will be in Marathon Cemetery. The family will be present to receive friends at the church on Saturday, May 10, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. until the start of the service at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Al’z Place in Gainesville, FL, Calvary Baptist Church in Alachua, FL, or Hunts Corners Baptist Church in Marathon, NY.