William Walter Cornell Sr.

William Walter Cornell Sr., born on December 7, 1952, passed away on December 5, 2025, at the age of 72. For twelve courageous years, William fought cancer with unwavering strength, humor, and a spirit that never dimmed. He faced every challenge with grace and determination, never losing the warmth that made him so beloved. His family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to Treasure Coast Hospice, whose compassion, comfort, and gentle care brought peace and dignity to his final days.

William was cherished by all who knew him. He lived life with an adventurous heart, an encouraging soul, and a kindness that left a lasting imprint on everyone he met. He had a way of making people feel seen, valued, and uplifted—whether through a thoughtful compliment, a shared laugh, or one of his simple but wise pieces of advice. To know William was to feel lighter, happier, and more hopeful.

He was the proud original owner of Cornell Auto Body of Egg Harbor City (Ocean City), New Jersey, a business he built with dedication and integrity before following his lifelong passion for the water. William found true joy in chartering fishing trips—first at South Jersey Marina in Cape May, New Jersey, and later at Sailfish Marina in Stuart, Florida, after settling in Hobe Sound. The ocean was his sanctuary, and he loved sharing that peace with others.

William had a deep affection for his 1971 Corvette Stingray, a reflection of his fun, spirited nature. Above all, he was a man who loved deeply—his family, his friends, the open water, and the simple joys of everyday life.

William leaves behind his devoted wife of 55 years, Elizabeth “Betty” Cornell, whose love and partnership were the foundation of his life. He is also survived by his sons, William Cornell Jr. and his wife Christeen, and their children Hailey and Chase; and Bryan Cornell and his wife Tammy, and their children Emily and Abigail—all of whom brought him immense pride and joy.

He is lovingly remembered by his siblings Robert Cornell, Thor Cornell, John Quick, Kathleen Duda, Joyce Quick, and Carolyn Holland, as well as many treasured nieces and nephews who adored him. William was preceded in death by his brother, Richard Cornell, whom he now reunites with in eternal peace.

A funeral service will be held at Aycock Funeral Home Young & Prill Chapel, located at 6801 SE Federal Hwy, Stuart, FL 34997, on January 14, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:04 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital www.stjude.org or Treasure Coast Hospice www.treasurehealth.org , in honor of William’s strength, compassion, and the love he shared so freely throughout his life.