William "Bill" Francis Cornele Jr.

William Francis Cornele Jr., known to many as Bill, was born on June 28, 1961, in Ohio, and passed away on May 2, 2026, in Phenix City, Alabama. He lived a life marked by steady dedication, quiet strength, and a genuine appreciation for the people, routines, and simple pleasures that made each day meaningful.

Bill was a man who valued service, responsibility, and hard work. His professional life included work in IT, where he brought practical skill and dependable commitment to the tasks before him. He also served in the United States Air Force, an experience that reflected his sense of duty and his willingness to contribute to something larger than himself.

Beyond his career, Bill was a man of many interests and personal joys. He enjoyed watching television, especially science fiction shows, and he was also a fan of Suits and Yellowstone. He liked spending time playing video games with his friend, sharing in the fun and camaraderie that came with a good game and good company. He appreciated road trips and found enjoyment in being outside, where he could take in the world around him at a pace that suited him. He also loved to cook, finding satisfaction in preparing meals and enjoying the comfort that good food could bring. Each morning, he would watch the news first thing, staying informed and connected to the world as the day began.

One of the most cherished parts of Bill’s life was the bond he shared with his dog, Paco Baby. The two were deeply attached to one another and were rarely far apart. Their companionship was a source of comfort, loyalty, and affection, and those who saw them together could easily understand how special that relationship was. 

Bill’s life was also defined by the way he connected with others. He had a personality that could be steady and familiar, and he valued the people in his life. He leaves behind many friends that will miss him dearly. His good friend Scott Williamson is among those who will remember Bill fondly. 

There will be a Funeral Service at Ft. Mitchell National Cemetery on Thursday, May 7 at 1:30 PM EST. A Visitation will be held the night before at Colonial Funeral Home from 6:00PM-8:00PM. 

May his memory bring comfort to those who loved him, and may he be remembered with gratitude for the life he lived and the mark he left on the lives of others.

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