Thomas E. Cornwell

Thomas Edward “Tom” Cornwell, 85, of Grain Valley, departed this life Wednesday, March 20, 2024, at his home surrounded with love and family.  He was born February 16, 1939, in Emporia, Kansas to Raymon E. and Villa R. (Duncan) Cornwell.  He graduated from Turner High School in 1957, was a United States Navy Veteran, businessman, husband, father, grandfather, friend, and faithful follower of Jesus Christ.  He will be missed.

 On August 21, 1965, he was united in marriage to Barbara J. Barnes in Kansas City; she preceded him in death on December 26, 2000.  On September 7, 2012, he was united in marriage to Shirley J. (Craig) Clesson.

Tom was employed as the Director of Information Technology for Research Hospital in Kansas City.  He later owned and operated several small businesses including a construction company and real-estate office.  He was an active member of the Lone Jack Baptist Church where he taught Sunday School and Bible Studies for many years.  He was also active in the Lone Jack community where he served on the C-6 District School Board, Lone Jack Civic Club, Lone Jack Lions Club, as well as the Jackson County Mental Health Board.  He enjoyed golfing, snow skiing, a good game of poker, and woodworking. He especially enjoyed spending time with his family.

He is survived by his wife, Shirley of Grain Valley; three children, Brian (and Ellie) Cornwell of Grain Valley, Derek (and Kim) Cornwell of Stillwell, Kansas, and Kathi (and Jimmy) Woodall of Grain Valley; one stepdaughter, Kari (and Steven) Allen of Grain Valley; thirteen grandchildren, Luke, Jake, Cole, John, Aidan, Norah, Carson, Abigail, Chloe, Hope, Sarah, Benjamin, and Gabrielle; one great grandchild expected soon; three sisters, Anna Westfall of Lenexa, Kansas, Zelma Lary of Muncie, Kansas, and Clara Pyles of Raymore, Missouri; along with many other relatives and friends.  Tom was also preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Leroy Cornwell.

A Celebration of Tom’s Life was held Sunday, April 7, 2024, at the Lone Jack Baptist Church.  Pastor Jerry Tharp officiated.  Inurnment will be in Adams Cemetery at a later date.

 Memorial contributions are suggested to the Lone Jack Baptist Church or Lone Jack Christian Church (DOC) and may be sent in care of the funeral home. 

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.StanleyEdenburn.com

Arrangements: Stanley-Edenburn Funeral Home, 203 N. Armstrong St., Pleasant Hill, Missouri 64080 (816) 540-5550