Gregory Allen Cornell

Gregory Allen Cornell, age 77, of Freeman Spur, Illinois passed away Monday, July 22, 2024 at V.A. Medical Center in Marion, Illinois.

Gregory was born April 06, 1947 in Herrin, Illinois, a son of Richard and Dolores (Maxey) Cornell. Greg grew up in Herrin and graduated Herrin High School in 1965. He joined the US Navy from 1966-1971. He served aboard the USS Hornet and participated in 2 Apollo Shots. He married the love of his life, Deborah M. White on August 14, 1971 in Herrin, Illinois. He worked for GTE and later worked for Bituminous Insurance Co. as an Insurance Underwriter. He retired in 2000. He was of Protestant Faith, and member of Herrin American Legion and VFW. Greg enjoyed his old tractors and maintaining his property. He was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather and above all loved and cared for his family. 

He is survived by his wife Deborah M. Cornell of Herrin, IL; two sons, Douglas A. (Stephanie) Cornell of Marble Hill, MO and Ryan N. Cornell (Significant Other Jessica Towns) of Freeman Spur, IL; two grandchildren, Veda Cornell and Ryker Towns; mother Delores Cornell of Herrin, and one brother, Curtis (Deanna) Cornell of Perryville, MO. He is preceded in death by his father, Richard Cornell and two siblings, Ron Cornell and Tammy Hovenga.

Visitation will be Thursday, August 1st, 2024 from 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM at the Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held Thursday, August 1, 2024, 11:00 AM at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home with Rev. Greg Parker officiating. Burial will follow at Herrin City Cemetery with military honors. 

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Herrin American Legion.