Richard Thomas Cornwell Sr.

Richard Thomas Cornwell, Sr., age 79, entered into eternal rest and was called home to Heaven on June 2, 2026, in Phoenix, Arizona.

Richard was born on January 4, 1947, in Huntington, New York (Long Island), to his parents, Russell H. Cornwell, a Nassau County police officer, and Ruth M. Cornwell, a local florist and ceramics artist.

A man of many talents and passions, Richard lived life fully and brought joy to those around him. He loved growing food and gardening, cooking, grilling, and smoking meats, as well as camping and fishing. He enjoyed doing puzzles, watching his favorite sports teams—Cardinals, Suns, and Diamondbacks—woodworking, carpentry work, a “Mr. Fix It” who repaired a myriad of broken items, and traveling whenever possible. Richard was also an avid reader, particularly of science fiction, and enjoyed collecting pop culture memorabilia and Lionel trains. He had a deep love for animals and took great pride in raising and training dogs, especially German Shepherds. Musically gifted, Richard played the accordion, guitar, and saxophone, and he also had an eye for photography. He cherished time spent at Munds Park, the Cornwell family cabin in Westcliffe (Colorado), the Italian Club, and, above all, valued the moments shared with family and friends.

Richard proudly served his country in the United States Army as a Military Police officer and Sentry Dog Handler. His service included participation in the Vietnam War, where he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and Vietnam Campaign Medal.

Throughout his life, Richard held a variety of roles, including positions with the United States Postal Service, as a security guard for American Express, a medical transport driver, courier, and elementary school custodian, among others—demonstrating his strong work ethic and dedication to service. He even volunteered in leading his son’s scout troop for a time as Scoutmaster, sharing his love of the great outdoors.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Russell and Ruth Cornwell; his in-laws, James and Elsie Arteca; and his former wife, Kathleen Wheeler-Cornwell.

He is survived by his loving spouse, Patricia Cornwell; his sons, Richard Cornwell and Ryan Cornwell; his stepsons, Steve Coty (Shanna Gilsrud) and Devin Coty; and his cherished grandchildren, Kathryn Cornwell, Tyler Coty (Kala’i Ballesteros), Lily Coty, Alex Coty, Elsie Coty, Nolan Coty, and Aubrie Braunbeck. He is also survived by his brother, Ronald Cornwell; his nephew, Bryan Cornwell; and his niece, Amanda Cornwell, along with many other beloved family members and dear friends.

Graveside services will be held on Friday, July 24, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the VA National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, located at 2929 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Phoenix, Arizona 85024.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to a veterans’ charity of your choice, such as US Vets-Phoenix or the Wounded Warrior Project.

Though Richard is no longer with us, his love, laughter, and the countless memories he created will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. His legacy of strength, kindness, and devotion to family will never be forgotten. May we find comfort in the moments we shared with him and carry his spirit with us always. Until we meet again, he will remain forever in our hearts.