William Brent Cornwell's Obituary
Our beloved William Brent Cornwell suddenly left us on Wednesday, November 13, 2024 in Dallas, Texas after a brief illness. Brent was born on October 20, 1945 to William Preston Cornwell and Bonnie Avonelle Cornwell in Kenton, Ohio, and eventually moved to Dallas. After graduating from Thomas Jefferson High School, Brent went on to earn a Finance degree from SMU, and later obtained his CPA license. Along with his brother, Greg, Brent founded and operated Royal Finish Inc., in 1990, with offices in Dallas, Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky.
For all who knew Brent, he was larger than life and many would even ask if he was a DJ, referring to his deep voice. Brent had an immense vocabulary with an eloquent command of the English language, making for a clever and witty sense of humor. He was a risky and suave businessman, and deeply cared about his employees. Christmas was Brent’s favorite holiday, often planning special family outings to enjoy the season. And he loved college football! Brent was a beacon of kindness and compassion, and his legacy will live on in our hearts through his love for family and his heart of pure gold. A dear friend wrote “Brent had a powerful presence that is not seen often and will forever be remembered and admired”. Brent lived his life like his favorite quote - Life is Good.
For his wife, Leslie, he was her strongest supporter, greatest admirer, and constant companion. To his daughter, April, Brent was her mentor, hero, best friend, her rock. For his grandson, Grant, he provided support, encouragement, and was such a strong influence on his life that he is following in his grandfather’s footsteps by attending SMU.
Brent is survived by his loving wife of 18 years, Leslie (Edmondson) Cornwell; his devoted daughter, April (Cornwell) Adair, husband Clayton Adair, and grandson, William Grant Adair, and step-grandson, Chase Adair and family; brothers Knowles Cornwell, wife Linda, and Brahm Cornwell, wife Robin; sister-in-law Kathy Cornwell; Lana Cornwell (April’s mother); and several nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his younger brother, Greg Cornwell.
Memorial services will be held at Restland Funeral Home - Memorial Chapel, 13005 Greenville Ave., Dallas, Texas on Friday, Nov. 22, 2024 at 2:30 PM. Visitation will be the evening prior on Thursday, November 21, 2024 from 5:00 – 7:30 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Salvation Army in Brent’s honor.
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