With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Betty Jean Cornell, who left this world peacefully on Thursday, April 10, 2025. Born on March 26, 1930, to Paul and Lynda (Pape) Lehrke. Betty was a graduate of Arcadia High School.
On June 4, 1949, she was united in marriage to Harold E. Cornell.
Betty dedicated many years of her life as a compassionate case worker for the Kenosha County Department of Social Services. Her genuine concern for others and unwavering commitment to her work made a profound difference in the lives of those she served. Her legacy of care, empathy, and support will be cherished and remembered fondly by her family, friends, and all whose lives she touched. Betty played a pivotal role in the early organization of the Kenosha County AFSME Union, where she served with distinction for multiple years as their President. Following her retirement, she continued her lifelong dedication to helping others by volunteering at the Kenosha Senior Center.
Betty will be remembered for her infectious laughter, her boundless passion for dancing, and her love for flower gardening, which brought beauty and serenity to her surroundings. She was not only a skilled card player but also had a remarkable streak of luck in bingo and slot machines, much to the delight of her friends and family. Betty’s vibrant spirit and joyful personality left an indelible mark on everyone she met, and her memory will continue to inspire and uplift those who knew her.
Betty is survived by her daughters, Shar Scarberry, Connie (Michael Mansfield) LeJeune, Gwendolyn Cornell-Keller, Gerri (Bill) Schuch, LaVonne (Eric) Cornell-Swanson, and Cindy (Tim Thompson) Cornell; 15 grandchildren; 24 great grandchildren, and 3 great-great grandchildren.
In addition to her parents, Betty was preceded in death by her husband, Harold E. Cornell and her grandson, Justin L. Dugan.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Library Terrace Suites Assisted Living and Hospice Alliance in Kenosha for the exceptional care and support they provided to Betty during her time in residence there.
Service Date April 26, 2025
SERVICE LOCATION St. Marys Lutheran Church
A visitation for Betty will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 12:00 p.m. at St. Mary Lutheran Church, 2001 80th St, Kenosha. WI.
Interment will follow in Green Ridge Cemetery.
