Cornelius was a native of Galveston. He was a retired restaurant manager and faithful member of the Macedonia Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon and sang in choir.

Cornelius was preceded in death by his parents, Jessie Mae and Liverpool Howard; one sister, great-grandmother, and grandmother.

Cornelius leaves cherished memories with his devoted wife of 35 years, Lurnell Franklin-Howard; three children: Natasha Howard (Voris), Yolanda Franklin-Moore (Doug), Tony Franklin (Yolanda); four grandchildren, Alexis, Marye, Tony, Jr. and Monterrian; sister, Bertdell Norwood; brothers, Calvin Howard and David Jackson; a sister-in-law; three brothers-in-law; three uncles; two aunts; devoted mother-in-law; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Visitation will begin at 9AM on Saturday, March 26, 2011, followed by a life celebration service at 11:00 am at Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church with Pastor A.W. Colbert, officiating. Burial will follow at Lakeview Cemetery

Special thanks to the staffs of UTMB, Davita Dialysis and Dial-a-Ride, who provided care for him and his  caregiver, Debra Simpson.