Our beloved mother and sister, Jane Luvinia Burrell Cornelius, passed away peacefully on April 1, 2025, at home. She was born on February 22, 1939, in Smithfield, VA, to the late James A. Burrell, Sr. and Lucy Ann Spratley. She was the fourth of nine children, five girls, and four boys. Jane attended Isle of Wight Training School and graduated in the class of 1956. Jane attended Norfolk State University when it was affectionately known as “Little State”.
Jane had a quiet, peaceful spirit. She lived a life of kindness and warmth and had an unwavering devotion to her children. Jane traveled with a group of friends in her earlier years. Jane was a great cook, and many planted their feet under her table for a good meal. Jane enjoyed watching Daytime Soap Operas and talking on the telephone weekly, discussing the stories with her niece from New York. She also loved receiving three-way calls with her sister and brother, affectionately called “The Three Musketeers”. Jane retired from C. Lloyd Johnson Company to care for her mother in her later years.
Jane joined Zion Light Church of Christ Disciples of Christ in April 1989. She served on the Pastor’s Aide Ministry and Beautification Committee.
As an adult, I came to realize my mother was genuinely funny. Her wit was quick and came at a time when you least expected it. Jane will be deeply missed and was loved beyond description by her children.
Jane was preceded in death by her parents and six siblings, Barbara B. Williams, James Albert Burrell, Jr., Ruth B. Fields, Georgia Ann B. Holmes, Hebert Burrell, and Rolfe Darnell Burrell.
To cherish her memories are two children, daughter Valerie Cornlius Parker and son, Michael Cornelius; one sister, Lorella B. Willis (Claude), Washington, DC; and one brother, Richard E. Burrell, St. Louis, MO. In addition, a host of nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. And a host of relatives and friends.
Done in Sorrow,
The Family
Amen
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Darrell Norman says
April 8, 2025 at 7:47 pmTo the family of Jane sorry for your lost. Jane was a very special person to me she will truly missed. So family just trusting n the Lord n he will see u ala thru it. Slim i’ll alway’s b here for u.
Keith J. Chapman Sr. says
April 11, 2025 at 9:21 amTo Valerie and all of “Mrs.Janey B’s” family, rest assured that we are thinking about you in this time of lost! We do however get to keep the legacy of her kindness,her generosity and her spirit… forever! Matt 5:4❤️
Verrita Kelly says
April 11, 2025 at 9:28 amTo the Willis and Cornelius Family I am so sorry to hear of your loss! Sending love prayers condolences and sympathy. May God give the Families the strength comfort and peace you all need during this difficult time!
Charlene Norman says
April 11, 2025 at 2:22 pmTo Valerie and Michael, wishing you peace, strength and lots of love at this time. Your mother Ms. Jane will be dearly missed but never forgotten. ❤