Mel was born May 2, 1939 in Paducah, Kentucky to the late Melvin H. Cornillaud Sr. and Geneva (Killebrew) Cornillaud.
Mel spent his college years, studying Engineering and Management. He received degrees from M.I.T. and the University of Wisconsin. He served in the Army as a 1st. Lieutenant at the Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland.
In 1972, after moving to Chicago, Mel met “Jo” his wife of 43 years. (Josephine S. Brodzik).
As Mel continued his 30 plus year career, holding senior management roles in the HVAC industry, it necessitated several moves throughout the US.
Mel and Jo eventually moved to Georgia, where they joined a loving, spirit-filled church. At consecutive retreat/renewal weekends, they heard testimonies, teachings, worshipful singing and experiencing genuine love. It was during this weekend that Mel and Jo both became “new creations” in Christ Jesus! (2 Cor. 5:17)
Mel took early retirement in 1995. They moved to Southport, NC in 1996, and they joined Beach Road Baptist Church. Mel continued his ministry of bible teaching, and helped launch Beach Road’s Mission and Outreach efforts.
Mel had a passion and a zeal to help men grow in their faith. One of his dear friends at Lifeway called him a “men’s ministry maniac” because he was always “on point” for reaching men for Christ.
This zeal and passion for training men to be the spiritual leaders in their homes took him far and wide throughout the world.
One of Mel’s favorite bible verses was Joshua 24:15 “But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.”
Mel is survived by his wife Jo of 43 years, sons Mike (wife Regina) Cornillaud of St. James, NC, and Steve (wife Margie) Cornillaud of Moline, IL, grandchildren Cassandra, Christian, Sasha, Marcus Cornillaud and Mikey Politowicz.
The family will have visitation from 6-8 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 8 at Peacock-Newnam & White Funeral Home in Southport, NC. The funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 9 at Generations Church at 4019 Executive Park Blvd. SE, Southport, NC (off Hwy. 211).
A private graveside service and reception will be held for the family.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Beach Road Baptist Church, 4457 Flagship Ave. SE, Southport, NC. 28461 or to the SECU Hospice House of Brunswick, 955 Mercy Lane, Bolivia, NC 28422.
Online condolences may be made to www.peacocknewnamwhite.com.
Peacock - Newnam & White Funeral and Cremation Service.
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