Wayne Sheridan Cornelius, a native of Allgood, AL and a resident of Daphne, AL, passed away on Sunday, January 5, 2026, at the age of 80.
Wayne served in the United States Army. He received his doctorate in Theology and served as a minister for over 50 years. In his spare time, he enjoyed gardening and reading.
Wayne is preceded in death by his parents, Mae and Sheridan Cornelius; and one brother, Colby Cornelius.
He survived by his loving wife, Dianne Cornelius; his daughter, Marla Brooks; grandchildren, Cameron Brooks, Matthew Brooks (Sophie); his siblings, Fay Wine, Fern Reeves, Colleen Rowland, Regina Ewing and Billy Cornelius; along with many nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.
A memorial service will be held at the Alabama State Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 34904 Hwy. 225 in Spanish Fort, AL, on Friday, January 16, 2026, at 2PM.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to the American Heart Association at https://www.heart.org/
Hughes Funeral Home is assisting the family. Expressions of condolence for the family may be made at www.hughesfh.com.
So sorry for your loss- praying for y’all during this difficult time
We are so sorry to learn of the passing of your brother, Wayne! We are praying that the Lord will bring comfort and strength to his whole family!
Remarkable life. Sincere condolences to the family. Many fond memories of childhood days spent playing with the Wayne and his siblings.
I’m so sorry for your loss. We are praying for your family.
My prayers are with you and your family Marla. Losing a parent is very difficult. I am sorry you are having to walk this road.
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I have known my brother-in-law for nearly my entire life—since I was a child, back when he and my sister were just teenagers themselves. In all those years, I never once heard him speak a harsh word. Not one. He was the kindest, most generous, and most steady soul I have ever known.
He served as a chaplain during the Vietnam War, carrying faith and compassion into places of unimaginable fear and pain. Later, he devoted himself to education, attending colleges and universities until he earned his doctorate in Theology. Yet despite his immense knowledge—especially of the Bible—he never carried himself with pride or superiority. He wore wisdom with humility and grace.
During my own teenage years, he bailed me out of more jams than I can count—practically, patiently, and without judgment. He supported me emotionally, spiritually, and educationally at times when I needed it most. He believed in me when I didn’t always believe in myself, and his guidance helped shape the person I became.
He was always available—always willing to listen, to counsel, to pray, or simply to be present. Not just for me, but for anyone who needed him. His life was one of true service, lived quietly and faithfully, never seeking recognition.
I rejoice in his homegoing. I know without question where he is, and I take comfort in that truth. Still, my heart will miss him forever. The world feels less steady without his voice, his wisdom, and his gentle strength—but heaven is richer now, and I am endlessly grateful for the years I was blessed to know and love him.
Diane-I’m so sorry to hear about your loss. Prayers for the family
Linda Hilburn
Dianne, I just saw this. I’m so sorry for your loss. My mom, Virginia Forsyth, loved you both. I bet mom was so glad to see him when he arrived in heaven! Praying for you and your family.
Dianne. I had been thinking of you and Wayne lately and went online to find you.
I have many great memories of your service at Jump Off Baptist on Monteagle mountain.
Also remember Marla as a baby.
Call me 205-901-7429
Diane I am so sorry to read of the passing of your husband. I will be praying for all of you 🙏🙏🙏