Constance Jean Cornwell

Constance Cornwell, age 87, of Menifee, CA, passed away on January 7, 2024. She was born on December 7, 1936. Constance was a beloved wife of 64 years to James Cornwell, a cherished mother to Dawn Ruda and Kimberly Cornwell, and a proud grandmother to Devon Ruda and Megan Ruda. She was preceded in death by her parents, Michael and Alice Tierney, and her sister, Mary Hall.

Constance dedicated her life to teaching and had a career that spanned over 35 years. She found joy in helping her students discover the wonder of words. Constance taught in Japan, Tilton, NH, Chula Vista, CA, and Escondido, CA. She was a graduate of Plymouth State Teacher's College.

In her personal life, Constance was known for her small stature but had a heart that made her a giant in the eyes of her family. She made the everyday special by writing notes on napkins and just finding joy and love in tiny gestures that added up so rapidly.

One of her favorite songs was “I Have a Dream” by ABBA – the lyrics sum up her philosophy of seeing the best in everyone. She would want us all to keep smiling and giving love to everyone that you encounter.

“I Have a Dream, a song to sing

To help me cope, with anything

If you see the wonder, of a fairy tale

You can take the future, even if you fail

I believe in angels

Something good in everything I see

I believe in angels

When I know the time is right for me

I'll cross the stream, I Have a Dream

I Have a Dream, a fantasy

To help me through, reality

And my destination, makes it worth the while

Pushin' through the darkness, still another mile

I believe in angels

Something good in everything I see

I believe in angels

When I know the time is right for me

I'll cross the stream, I Have a Dream”

-Songwriters: Benny Andersson / Bjoern K Ulvaeus

She will be deeply by missed all who knew and loved her.