Rebecca Cornelius' Obituary
Rebecca Snow Cornelius, also lovingly known as Becky, born on February 5, 1939, in Murchison, TX, peacefully passed away on April 27, 2024, in Dallas, TX. She was the beloved daughter of Alvin and Alice Castleberry. Rebecca was a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and aunt, leaving behind a legacy of love and devotion.
Rebecca's life was a testament to love, family, and dedication. She also had a remarkable love story with her late spouse, Dalton Eugene Cornelius, whom she met when they were just children living in the same apartment building, playing house together. At the tender age of 16, they eloped on August 13, 1955, in Durant, OK, after telling his father they were going fishing. They shared over 61 years of marriage until Dalton passed in 2017.
She was a loving mother to her sons Steven Eugene Cornelius and Mark Douglas Cornelius, and daughter Julie Diane Phillips. Rebecca is also survived by her brother Harold Castleberry and preceded in death by brother Maxwell Castleberry, and sisters Betty Weatherly, Grace Mascho, and Yvonne Potter. Her legacy extends through her eight cherished grandchildren: Shane Cornelius, Blake Cornelius, Jaclyn Cornelius, Chris Cornelius, Andrea Shepperd, Adam Phillips, Nathan Phillips, and Rebekah Phillips. She was also a proud great-grandmother to Angelina Gilmore, Parker Cornelius, Landon Archer, Adalynn Zello, Ian Cornelius, Hudson Cornelius, Emerson Shepperd, and Isaac Phillips. Rebecca also leaves behind a large family of 20 nieces and nephews and extended family and friends.
Rebecca was known for her deep love for her family. She made sure was present at almost every family function, always bringing joy and laughter to those around her. She had a special bond with her children and grandchildren, creating endless cherished memories with each of them.
In addition to her dedication to her family, Rebecca was a loyal employee at Sears for 29 years. Rebecca's hobbies included her love for the Rangers and Cowboys, showcasing her Texas spirit and passion for sports. She was a proud member of the community, Rebecca's faith was a cornerstone of her life, actively participating in church activities, including the choir and leading the ladies' Ministry at Urban Park/King of Glory Assembly of God.
A visitation is scheduled for Monday, May 6, 2024, at 9 AM at Restland's Wildwood Chapel, located at 13005 Greenville Ave., Dallas, TX, 75217. The funeral service will begin at 10 AM the same day, with entombment following at the Chapel Garden Mausoleum in Restland Memorial Park.
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