Gerald Willard Cornell, age 80, passed away on Tuesday, August 18, 2026. Gerald was a resident of Jackson, Michigan. He was born on September 10, 1945 in Jackson, MI to Albert Willard and Dorothy Lee (Henley) Cornell.
Gerald is survived by sons; Chris (Siera) and Ryan (Jody); grandchildren Carissa (Isiah) Crampton, C.J., Brooke and Evangeline; sisters Sandy (Bill) Fry and Cindy (Scott) Cole; great grandson Julian Garcia.
In addition to his parents Gerald was preceded in death by wife Shirley Cornell, sisters Sharon Mcfate and Debra Keith.
Gerald dedicated his working life to skilled, hands-on labor, serving as an Industrial Master Mechanic with Kelsey Hayes/ TRW and finished his working career with his son at CCI Excavating. Known for being a very hard worker, he brought steady commitment and pride to the work he did and the responsibilities he carried.
Gerald lived a life marked by steady commitment and a quiet pride in the work he did and the responsibilities he carried. In these everyday duties, his character was evident—reliable, devoted, and mindful of what it means to show up for others with consistency and care.
Gerald also served in the United States ARMY, including service in Vietnam, a chapter of his life remembered with deep respect and gratitude.
In his younger years, Gerald found joy in the outdoors—especially fishing and camping—and he treasured trips to the Upper Peninsula. He also loved to snowmobile, embracing the season with the same determination and spirit that marked so much of his life.
He was greatly appreciated and will be missed by all who knew him.
Visitation will be held at Burden-Patience-Montgomery Funeral Home, 1806 East Michigan Avenue, Jackson, MI 49202, on Monday, August 24, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Burden-Patience-Montgomery Funeral Home, 1806 East Michigan Avenue, Jackson, MI 49202, on Monday, August 24, 2026, beginning at 12:00 pm.
