James Edward Cornelius, 81, of Grand Prairie passed away Friday, September 21, 2018. He was born in Corsicana, Texas on January 6, 1937 to John and Ada Cornelius - making silly faces for as long as anyone can remember. As a teen he loved to jam with his buddies, playing guitar and singing – even dancing around to the music he loved so dearly. Continuing his schooling post-graduation at Abeline Christian and working his way all the way through his PhD (which he never failed to let anyone forget). He loved golf, jokes and was always up to mischief. As an avid golfer, he would schedule his days around his tee times.
James spent thirty years teaching History and Government at Tarrant County College before retiring in Grand Prairie, TX with his wife whom he loved with all his heart, Gwen Ross-Cornelius. In the years to come, they spent their days laughing, traveling and living life to the fullest. Gwen passed away Monday, September 24, 2018, from the tragic event that took both their lives.
James leaves behind his daughter, Melissa Gillum and Fiance, Herb Butzbach; granddaughter, Shae Gillum; grandson, Brett Gillum and his fianc, Kyndal Shaddox. He is also survived by his sister, Patricia Titus and her husband, Steven Titus; niece, Tracy Birosak and her husband, Brian Birosak along with their children, Jacob and Jonathan Birosak; niece, Wendy Rowe and her husband, Baron Rowe with their daughter, Noelle Rowe.