PAXTON — Monica Jean Cornell, 71 of Paxton, died at 6:59 a.m. Sunday, May 18, 2025, at Accolade Healthcare of Paxton Senior Living.
A celebration of her life will be held at a later date. Baier Family Funeral Services in Paxton is assisting the family with arrangements.
Mrs. Cornell was born April 26, 1954, in Chicago, the daughter of Richard Leo and Agnes Catherine Niebrugge Bezdon. She married Ralph Cornell Sr. on Oct. 11, 1975, at St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic Church in Chicago. He died Sept. 10, 2007.
Surviving are two sons, Vince Cornell of Wyoming and Ralph Cornell Jr. of Roberts; three grandchildren, Max Cornell, Breanna Cornell and Ariel Cornell; one sister, Marcia Snow-Vidrine of Roberts; and one brother, Mark (Julie) Bezdon of Champaign.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; one son, John Joseph, in infancy; and one brother, Michael Bezdon.
Mrs. Cornell graduated from Steinmetz High School in Chicago. She was a waitress for many years. She moved from Chicago to the Loda and Paxton area in 2008. She enjoyed crocheting, baking, bingo and playing board games. She was an avid Chicago Cubs fan.
Memories and condolences can be shared with the family at www.baierfuneralservices.com.