Larry Max Cornelius

Dr. Larry Max Cornelius went home to be with his Lord and Savior on October 28, 2022. He was born in Washington, Indiana on April 30, 1943 to Melvin Ralph Cornelius and Vera Nadine Cardinal Cornelius who have preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Barbara Cornelius, son Jeff Cornelius (Julie) and daughter Jennifer Snipes (Earl). He is also survived by his brother Phil Cornelius (Bobbi Jo), sisters: Lana Frady (John), Jill Bush, and Jan Mock (Dan).

His 8 grandchildren: Brandon Wyatt, Alyssa Heitman (Jamie), Benjamin Snipes, Jacie Snipes, Abigail Cornelius, Jeffrey Cornelius, Robert Cornelius, and Martha Cornelius were the highlight of his life after they were born.

Larry graduated from Purdue University in 1967 with a D.V.M.  and then accepted a  15 month internship at Angel Memorial Small Animal Hospital in Boston, Mass. In 1971 he became a “paradox” when he received a Ph.D. in Veterinary Comparative Pathology at the University of Missouri.

From 1971-1973 he was a faculty member in the Dept. of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery at the University of Missouri.  In 1974 he was hired as an assistant professor in the Dept. of Small Animal Medicine at UGA. Later Larry became full professor and in 1975 he received Board Certification in Small Animal Internal Medicine. Larry received many recognitions throughout his career, including Outstanding Clinician in 1990.

Larry retired as veterinarian from the small animal clinic of the University of Georgia Veterinary School in 2001 and was honored with the title of Emeritus Professor.

In 2005 he became a member of the Tuckston Methodist Chancel Choir and enjoyed the music so much he began to practice singing different genres of music at his home. In 2008, he shocked many of his friends and colleagues by becoming a local performer of gospel, country and Elvis music. For over 12 years he enjoyed doing many programs and occasionally his daughter Jennifer and he performed duets together.

Larry’s greatest accomplishment was when at the age of 60 years, he was baptized and accepted the Lord as his Savior.  It gives his family tremendous comfort to know that he is now with his Lord and is having a glorious reunion with many family members who have gone before him.

Larry was greatly loved by his wife, children, and grandchildren, and many friends. He lived a full life that mattered for himself and his Lord.  His family is extremely grateful to have had him in their lives.

A celebration of Larry’s life will be held on Tuesday, November 1, 1:00 pm at Tuckston United Methodist Church, followed by a reception in the Tuckston fellowship hall.  The Rev. Dr. John Brown will officiate.  Memorial gifts may be sent to Tuckston United Methodist Church in memory of Dr Larry Cornelius.

Lord and Stephens Funeral Home, EAST, Athens, GA is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com