Marcia D. Cornelius

Marcia Dean Cornelius, 90, passed away Friday, July 18, 2025 at Presbyterian Manor in Emporia. She was born on August 13, 1934, in Emporia, Kansas, the beloved daughter of Vernie and Neva Hunt Longhofer. Raised in a close-knit and faith-filled family, Marcia lived a life rooted in love, humility, and quiet strength — touching the lives of all who knew her. She was preceded in death by her parents; an infant sister; her brother, Doyle Longhofer; her brother-in-law, Jim Russell; and her husbands, Jury Joonas, Allen Calvey, and Al Cornelius.

Marcia will live on in the hearts and treasured memories of her children, Jim Joonas, Steve Joonas and wife Jenny, Danny Calvey and wife Tammy Whittington and Julie Dains and husband Kent; She was a proud and devoted grandmother to, Jennifer Florence and husband Toby, Jesse Dains and wife Dannielle, Jordan Dains, Melissa Whittington, Bryce Joonas and wife Delaney, Bailey Joonas and wife Karli, Blaine Joonas and wife Kaitlyn, Daniel May and girlfriend Kailee Stucky. Her great-grandchildren brought her endless joy and include: Max Olson, McKenzie Olson, Hayden Florence, Hudson Florence, Maverick Florence, Hendrix Florence, Hayli Gerkin, Talynn Dains, Tamzin Dains, Stella Dains, Kobe Dains, Dean Samuel Lee Trumbo, Mason Joonas, and Arwen Joonas. Marcia is also survived by her brother, Larry Longhofer and his wife Sherryl; her sister, Janet Russell; and her sister-in-law, Darlene Longhofer.

Marcia worked many jobs over the years, ranging from waitressing to medical transcription. No matter the role, her motivation remained constant: providing for her children and ensuring they had what they needed to thrive. Her quiet determination and strength were evident in every sacrifice she made and every task she embraced. One of the greatest expressions of her faith and dedication was her service as the organist at Lebo Baptist Church in Lebo, Kansas — a role she filled joyfully and faithfully for over 30 years. Her music was a gift to the congregation, and her presence behind the organ brought comfort and inspiration to many. Marcia will be remembered for her unwavering devotion to family, her kind and gentle spirit, her servant's heart, and the grace with which she lived. Her memory will live on through the generations she nurtured and the lives she touched.

Marcia requested memorial contributions be made to the Lebo Baptist Church Building Fund and sent in care or the Jones VanArsdale Funeral Home, P.O. Box #43, Lebo, Kansas 66856.