Edward Maurice Cornelius, 62, passed away suddenly on August 7, 2025 at Medstar St. Mary's hospital in Leonardtown, MD with his family at his bedside. He was born in Jerseyville, IL on September 19, 1962, the son of Daniel and the late Patricia (Perdun) Cornelius.

Surviving Ed is his wife Josephine "JoJo", his father Daniel and "new mommy" Karen, his brothers Mark (Teresa) and Gary (Luzy) and sister Kim (Mike), stepchildren Joey, Florence, Miranda and Mirasol, 2 aunts and an uncle as well as several cousins, nephews, nieces, and a great niece. He was preceded in death by his grandparents and mother.

Ed was raised on the family farm in Dow, IL and graduated Jersey Community High School in 1980. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy as an Electronic Technician at the age of 20. Ed was qualified as a Surface Warfare Specialist and Master Training Specialist as well as serving on multiple ships and teaching Navy electronics and leadership schools. Ed deployed during the Gulf Wars and was also stationed in Bahrain. He retired from the Navy in 2006 after 24 years of service as a Chief Petty Officer. He recently retired from BAE Systems after 19 years where he served as a lead in the repairing of Navy electronic systems.
Ed enjoyed spending time at home with the love of his life, JoJo and visiting family members located in several states.

A memorial service will be held at the Dow Southern Baptist Church in Dow, IL on Sunday the 24th of August at 3:00.

Please make any memorials to Ed's memory to the cancer charity of your choice.

Mattingley-Gardiner funeral home in Leonardtown, MD is providing assistance.