Msgr. William R. Cornelius

Msgr. William R. Cornelius, 87, of Steubenville died Friday, January 12, 2018 at his home. He was born March 30, 1930, in Detroit, Michigan, the son of the late William R. and Margaret Garman Cornelius. He was one of three children, his brother Benjamin and his sister Mary Margaret, both deceased. Surviving are several nieces and nephews.

His education included attending grade and high schools in Detroit; the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Mich., from 1948-49; St. John Vianney Seminary, Bloomingdale, 1951-54; The College of Steubenville, summers, 1952-57, where he earned a bachelor’s degree; St. Francis Seminary, Loretto, Pa., 1954-58; and The Catholic University of America, Washington, D.C., 1958-59, from which he earned a master’s degree.

Ordained to the priesthood on May 31, 1958, at holy Name Cathedral, Steubenville, by Bishop John King Mussio, Msgr. Cornelius’ assignments included serving as: principal and teacher, St. Joseph Central High School, Ironton, and administrator, St. Ann Parish, Chesapeake, 1959-62; principal, Catholic Central High School, Steubenville, 1962-64; assistant to the superintendent of schools for the diocese, 1964-66; diocesan superintendent of schools, 1966-81; and pastor, St. Pius the Tenth Church, Steubenville, 1981-2000.

In appreciation of his faithful priestly ministry, he was named a monsignor (domestic prelate) in 1969; awarded an honorary doctor of pedagogy from the College of Steubenville, 1969; and served as a member of Bishop Albert H. Ottenweller’s core staff, the diocesan College of Consultors and Presbyteral Council.

Msgr. Cornelius retired from active ministry in July 2000. In retirement, he resided in Steubenville and assisted pastors when called upon in parishes throughout the diocese.

Calling hours will be held Tuesday from 2-7 pm at the Mosti Funeral Home, Sunset Chapel, 4435 Sunset Blvd., Steubenville. A vigil service will be held Tuesday at 6:30 pm.  Additional calling hours will be held at Holy Rosary Catholic Church Wednesday from 9:15 am until time of his Funeral Mass at 11 am. Bishop Jeffrey Monforton will be the celebrant.  Entombment will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Offer condolences at www.mostifuneralhome.com

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