Honoring Jerry Cornelius of Canyon Creek. Family Man, Texan, Craftsman
- KRAS Cancer Connect
- Oct 23
- 2 min read
Jerry Cornelius 1955 - October 20, 2025
Jerry Cornelius lived as a creator, mentor, and native Texan at heart. Born in Augsburg, Germany to a military family, he grew up in Lawton, Oklahoma in a lively home of nine children. Siblings include the late David Cornelius, Nancy Barrineau, Carol Collier with Don, Patrisha McEuen, twin brother Terry Cornelius with Melanie, Pam Cornelius, and Kaye Jennings with Tim.
Craft became calling in the late 1970's when custom picture framing sparked a lifelong pursuit. Enhancing art through fine framing defined a forty-five year career. A frame shop in Lewisville, Texas led to the love of his life. Jerry and Barbara met at the shop in 1987, married in 1990, and launched Canyon Creek Art in 1995. Canyon Creek Art continues to flourish and carry forward the spirit of thoughtful craftsmanship.
Community shaped Jerry’s days. Service on local boards, hands on mentoring, and generous counsel strengthened Richardson, Texas and reached far beyond. Friends, artists, and clients across the world carry lessons learned at his workbench and in his warm presence.
Family remains his proudest legacy. Jerry is survived by his wife, Barbara. Children include Patricia Deutsch with Donald, Larry Bonnell, Shari Strilecky with Jason, and Jeffery Bonnell with Marlys Williams. Twelve grandchildren and five great grandchildren continue the story. Seven siblings, along with many nieces and nephews, keep the circle strong. Their dogs Bella and Coco stayed close beside him.
Courage defined his final years. Jerry faced non-small cell lung cancer, mucinous adenocarcinoma, over more than four years. His cancer carried a gene mutation called KRAS G12D. The family believes this mutation follows his paternal lineage. Jerry chose to donate his body to the University of Minnesota Medical School to further research in lung cancer and advance knowledge for others.
Jerry and Barbara chose a Living Memorial Parade in place of a formal service. From the time of his final diagnosis, loved ones gathered to share stories, laugh, and honor a life well lived. Visitors filled the calendar with presence and memories. Tall tales grew a little taller and that felt exactly right.
In His Words Written August 15, 2025
“I never thought I would think of Cancer as a blessing. There has been a lot of lost time. Goals and dreams unresolved. Vital organs removed and rigorous treatments resulting in profound misery. Worse of all, knowing the pain my wife, Barbara will live with.
And then, the Blessing
Announcing to friends and family that I have a limited amount of time, has resulted in hearing from many people, some that I haven't heard from in quite some time.Our calendar is full of people that want to come and see us. Some will come to say goodbye while others already know they'll make the journey again at a moment's notice. Stories will be shared. In these latest versions of these old stories, we'll stand a little taller and run a little faster......That's ok, because we've earned the right somewhere along the way.”
Canyon Creek Art, the Richardson arts community, and a far reaching network of friends will miss Jerry’s steady hand, generous eye, and unmistakable kindness.
Ways to honor Jerry
Support research in his honor through KRAS Kickers.
Support compassionate end of life care through
Our Lady of Peace Hospice Care.
