Cornelia Von Schipmann

Cornelia Powell Von Schipmann, age 83, of Corryton, Tennessee departed this world for her heavenly home on March 2, 2025. Originally from Drew, Mississippi, Cornelia was born January 21, 1942. After graduating from the Mississippi State College for Women, she married William Von Schipmann in 1962, and they moved to Corryton in 1964 with their first child, Bill, to forge a new adventure. A Knox County Schools teacher, she taught middle school for 35 years. Cornelia was dedicated to her students, providing high-quality instruction and feedback. She expected as much of herself as she did of her students, spending countless hours each night grading papers, providing feedback and preparing lesson plans. Her students and their success was an important part of her life, and was an extension of her own love of reading.

Cornelia was a gentle spirit. Her Christian witness was evident in the way she conducted herself with patience, kindness, gentleness, self-control, honesty, and humility. She exemplified the description of quiet strength and was a practical, no-nonsense person. Cornelia was selfless in her devotion to family and was a trustworthy friend, earnestly giving her best to those things she deemed important.

An animal lover her entire life, she quietly doted on her many sweet pets. In retirement, she devoted much time to the creation and support of the Union County Humane Society; volunteered at the Corryton Hospitality Food Pantry; became obsessed with flower gardening; and cherished the arrival of her six precious grandchildren—with whom she was always free to help babysit or attend special functions. Her love for others, her advice, and her lifestyle were always consistent and grounded in her faith. We celebrate her release from a debilitating condition, but will miss her sweet smile, calming presence and constant love.

Cornelia leaves behind her husband of 63 years, William "Von" Von Schipmann II; children, William "Bill" Von Schipmann III, and Laura (Shawn) White; grandchildren, Mackin (Carson) McCullough, Merimee Von Schipmann (fiancé, Sonny DeTillo), William "Will" Von Schipmann IV, Bayden Von Schipmann, Madelyn Drew White, and Amelia White; brothers, Gene Powell and Mike Powell; sisters-in-law, Ardath Palmer, Ethel Woldt, and Melita Brown Hood; a host of nieces and nephews; her dear teacher friends; and beloved church friends from Rutherford Memorial UMC. She is preceded in death by parents, Milton and Eddie Powell and nephew, Eric Powell.

Family will receive friends Friday, March 7th from 12-2pm at Berry Lynnhurst Funeral Home with funeral service at 2pm. Rev. Joe Phillips and Rev. Ed Bardill officiating. Entombment will directly follow services at Lynnhurst Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorials be made to the Union County Humane Society, or the Corryton Hospitality Food Pantry, or to the Tennessee Memory Disorders Foundation.