Obituary of Jacqueline (Jacqui) Cornelius

Cornelius, Jacqueline (nee Tessier)  

Passed away peacefully with her loving family by her side at Ina Grafton Gage Village on Wednesday, October 23, 2019 at the age of 92. Predeceased by her husband John and her cherished son, David. Beloved mother of Josette (Byron Kangelis), Lorraine (Richard Howard) and Brian (Shelley Lambert). Loving grandmother of Lesley and Emily Cornelius, and Lauren and Joel Howard. She is survived by her brother Roger (Marg) Tessier and predeceased by her sister Yvette (Ted) McKenna and her brother Paul Tessier. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews and special friends. Jacqui was a lifelong resident of St. Catharines. She was a devoted wife and mother. After raising her family, she went back to school and began a career with the Federal Government. After retirement, she continued to be active in her community, volunteering for various causes including Saint Vincent de Paul and Henley Island Helpers. Jacqui was a member of Star of the Sea Parish in Port Dalhousie and its chapter of the Catholic Women’s League. Jacqui will be remembered as a kind and caring person who saw the good in everyone. Her warm smile brought joy to those around her. Jacqui was a proud Canadian, an environmentalist, a gardener, a perennial optimist, a champion of the underdog and a passionate follower of politics and civic issues. She cared deeply for her family and was a loyal friend to many. The family wishes to extend sincere thanks to the staff at Ina Grafton Gage Village who took such good care of Jacqui for several years. In keeping with Jacqui’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Friends and family will be welcomed at the GEORGE DARTE FUNERAL HOME, 585 Carlton St., St. Catharines on Monday, October 28 from 6-8 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Star of the Sea Church, 34 Elgin St., St. Catharines on Tuesday, October 29 at 10 a.m. A private family interment will take place at a later date. Memorial remembrances made to Saint Vincent de Paul Society (Star of the Sea) or The War Amps would be appreciated by the family.