Reuel Lynn Cornelison
June 1, 1949 – November 9, 2026
A Memorial Service will take place on Friday, November 13, 2026 at 10 a.m. in the chapel at Greenview Funeral Home , 3657 Old Chisholm Rd., Florence, AL 35633.
Reuel Lynn Cornelison, 77, of Florence, Alabama, passed away on November 9, 2026, at North Alabama Medical Center.
Born on June 1, 1949, Reuel graduated from East Ridge High School in 1967 and attended Cleveland State Community College. He had a lifelong love of art, design, music, and illustration. He served as art director at Tee Jays before continuing his creative work as a freelance graphic designer and illustrator. He also designed for the band Alabama and painted a mural at EarlyWorks Children’s Museum, leaving a creative mark that brought joy to others. A gifted musician, Reuel played guitar and piano and generously shared his love of music.
Reuel believed in giving back to his community. He served for six years on the board of directors of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Shoals, supporting its work with young people.
Reuel took his greatest pride in the life he shared with his loved ones. He treasured their time together and the memories they made.
Reuel and Julie Oliger Cornelison shared 39 years of marriage. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and companionship. Julie recently preceded him in death, and there is comfort in knowing they are together again.
Reuel was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Julie Oliger Cornelison, and his parents, Eddie Lee Cornelison and Mary Ellen Womack Cornelison.
He is survived by his children, Jeff Cornelison (Dana), Michael Cornelison (Renee), Mary Ellen Ionetz (Chris), and his stepdaughters, Lori Rhodes Copeland (Chuck) and Ashley Rhodes. He is also survived by his sisters, Wanda Foster and Nina Joy Brackett. His grandchildren are Wesley Cornelison, Jackson Cornelison, Taylor Wood, Chandler Johnston, Gannen Rhodes, Gage Hearn, and Evan Copeland. He is also survived by three great-grandchildren.
Reuel will be remembered for his artistic gifts, his love of music, his generosity, his service to his community, and the love he shared with those around him. His legacy will live on through his art, his music, and the generations who will carry his memory forward.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation in Reuel’s memory.
Rest peacefully, Reuel. May you be reunited with Julie, the love of your life.
