Johnnie Cornelius, 27, passed away on December 27, 2014, after waging a courageous battle against rare and incurable conditions.
He was born on March 4, 1987, in Marion, Ohio, then moved to Flagstaff when he was seven years old. As a child, he wrote funny stories and showed an early aptitude for art. He loved getting into mischief with his four older brothers—brothers he looked up to and wanted to be like. Johnnie graduated from Coconino High School in 2005, then eventually met his wife Mallory when they both served on the worship team at church. Since their marriage in 2012, they packed many years' worth of life and love into their short time together.
Johnnie was an accomplished musician who knew how to rock out on the drums, as well as play guitar and sing sweet songs. He had an appreciation for beauty and enjoyed photography, with his wife as his favorite subject. One could often find Johnnie at the White Dove, sipping coffee and enjoying people. Despite his own suffering, he always had a word of encouragement for others, challenging them to think deeper and seek Truth. For Johnnie, the biggest truth was love. Those who knew him will forever be touched by his gentle spirit, courage and quiet humor.
Johnnie is survived by countless people who love him, because he loved countless people. First among them is his wife Mallory Cornelius. Others include his father John (Karen) Cornelius, mother Renee (Dusty) Curren, brothers James (Leah) Cornelius, Peter Cornelius, Joe (Christy) Cornelius, Ben (Jessica) Cornelius, in-laws Troy and Georgiana Daniels, sisters-in-law Chloe and Tori Daniels, grandparents-in-law George and Tessie Moate, along with treasured nieces, nephews and extended relatives.
A celebration of Johnnie's life will be on Saturday, January 3, 2015 at Canyon Chapel, 1919 N. 4th St., Flagstaff, Arizona. The viewing will be at 10:00 a.m., and the service will begin at 11:00 a.m., followed by interment at Citizens Cemetery. Those who would like to gather and share great memories can meet afterwards at Johnnie's favorite hang-out, the White Dove.
He fought the good fight, he finished the race, he kept the faith.