I t is with deep sadness we announce the passing of the beloved Reverand John Henry "Jabo" Cornelius, who has been called home to the Lord, and entered his eternal rest on January 28th, 2026.

Born on July 15th, 1947, in Lancaster, South Carolina, Rev. Cornelius, known affectionately as "Jabo", received his early education in Winston-Salem/Forsyth County School System and was a graduate of Atkins High School. In 1976, he proudly served his country in the United States Army.

Following his military service, he relocated to Buffalo, New York, where he became employed by General Mills. While working for General Mills, Rev. Cornelius attended Villa Maria College, earning himself a Degree in Culinary Arts.

Later in life, Rev. Cornelius returned to the Winston-Salem area and began working for the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County School System, where he worked faithfully until his retirement.

At an early age, Reverend Cornelius accepted Christ and became a devout member of New Jerusalem Baptist Church, often serving in various capacities throughout the parish. With a deep love for studying the Word of God, he answered the call to ministry and continued his theological education at Winston-Salem Bible College and Piedmont Bible College. In 1994, he began his ministerial journey as an Associate Minister at New Jerusalem Baptist Church and also served faithfully with the High Point Missionary Baptist Association.

Later in life, Rev. Cornelius was selected to pastor Zion Baptist Church in Mt. Airy, NC, where he shepherded the congregation with devotion and compassion. His life was marked by dedication to God, love for his family, and service to his community until his retirement in 2019, following significant health challenges.

As the beloved son of the late Roosevelt T. Cornelius, Sr. and Emma Ruth Rutledge Cornelius Alexander, Rev. Cornelius was also preceded in death by his siblings, Roosevelt "June" Cornelius, Jr. and Jessie Mae Cornelius King.

Reverand Cornelius is lovingly remembered and survived by his devoted wife of over 20 years, Cynthia Allen Cornelius; his children, Sam (Sonya) Switzer, John (Sandy) Switzer, Johnetta Cornelius Roberts, Tamatha Cornelius, Robert (Rhonda) Cornelius, and Derrick (Lisa) Allen; and two bonus children, Arthur Woodbury, Jr. and Commissioner Dr. Malishai Woodbury, whom he affectionately called "The Professor."

Additionally left to honor and celebrate his life are 20 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren; his siblings Rev. Samuel J. Cornelius, Rev. Brian T. Cornelius, Willette "Cookie" Alexander Rorie, Emily "Kay" Alexander Williams (Rev. Timothy Williams), and Robert Alexander (Shawn); an uncle, Charlie Rutledge of Buffalo, NY; an aunt, Mable Rutledge; a lifetime loyal friend, Theopolis Carter; 18 nieces and nephews; and a host of cousins, church family, and friends.

Special recognition is given to a devoted niece and nephew, Judge Shonna Alexander and Brian Hart, for their love and support.

The family will forever remain grateful for the compassion, love, care, and unwavering support shown to their beloved husband, father and pastor during his life.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 pm Wednesday February 4, 2026 at New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church. The family will receive friends from 12:30pm-1:00pm Wednesday at the church. His remains may be viewed Tuesday February 3, 2026 from 12pm-5pm at the funeral home.