Jean Rosalyn Cornelius

Jean Cornelius passed away on September 21, 2009 in Austin, Texas. She was born on July 27, 1932 in Pampa, Texas to Ross and Laura Belle Smith Cornelius. Jean graduated from Pampa High School and, later, graduated in 1954 from Rice University in Houston, Texas. She married Ross McElreath and they raised three children, Sara, Steven, and Greg. After divorcing, Jean worked as a computer programmer before continuing her education at St. Mary's School of Law in San Antonio and graduating with her law degree. She practiced law in Austin for 34 years. Jean was known for her intelligence and spirit of adventure. One of her adventures included a cross country driving trip to Alaska. She was an active member of St. David's Episcopal Church and Rice Owl Bridge Club. She was an original member of the City of Austin Women's Commission and the Enchilada Club. Her hobbies included reading, bridge, gardening, exercise, and service to the community. She had a compassionate and loving heart and will be truly missed. Jean is survived by her three children, Sara (George) Satornino, Steven McElreath, Greg (Debbie) McElreath; nine grandchildren, sister, Lynn (Frank) Cooksey and their two children, Kathryn (Paul) Pew and Franklin Cooksey. She is preceded in death by her parents; brother, Robert Cornelius; and grandson, Mark Satornino. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, October 16, 2009 at St. David's Episcopal Church in Austin. Memorial contributions may be made to St. David's Episcopal Church in Jean's name.