John M. Cornelius

John M. Cornelius, age 68, of Forest Hill, Maryland, passed away on December 13, 2023, at Johns Hopkins Medical Center in Baltimore, Maryland. He was born in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, the son of the late Earle and Barbara (Leach) Cornelius. John was the beloved husband of Susanne (Whittington) Cornelius and devoted father of Joseph and Sam Cornelius of Baltimore, Maryland.

John was a proud graduate of the University of Georgia (“How ‘bout them Dawgs?”).  He spent most of his adult career as a research chemist working mostly with silica formulations.  John was introduced to Susanne when they both worked for SCM Chemicals (later to become Millennium Specialty Chemicals) and in1998 happily accepted a job with the JM Huber Corporation in Havre de Grace where he co-authored several patents in silica chemistry.   He worked for JM Huber until they were bought out by Evonik.

As a part-time employee of Kefauver Lumber Company in his retirement, he was able to fulfill his goal of making money for his woodworking – a hobby that provided family with picture frames, lamps and furniture over the years.  John brought his strong work ethic and commitment to everything he did. Beyond his professional endeavors, John was a devoted lifetime Scouter, serving in various capacities within the Baltimore Area Council – Pack 809 and Troop 809.  His involvement reflected not only his commitment his family but also to the community.

An avid outdoorsman, John found joy in camping, fishing, golfing, and a wide range of sports, but his heart belonged to the University of Georgia Bulldogs and the North Harford High School soccer and basketball teams, for whom he was an enthusiastic and unwavering fan.  John also took great pleasure in preparing delicious meals for his family.

In addition to Susanne and the boys, John is also survived by his brother, Earle (Patti) Cornelius III of Lancaster, PA and nieces Kelly (Joe) Parlapiano, Hilary Cornelius and her wife Kathy Ludwig, Kayla Ryan, and Amy Townsend, and lots of extended family.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to organizations close to John's heart: the Humane Society of Harford County at 2208 Connolly Road, Fallston, MD 21047, or NEMDAA at 28 Centennial Lane, Aberdeen, MD 21001.