Jo Emma Cornelius

Jo Emma Cornelius, 63, Plainfield, passed away peacefully at home January 22, 2021, after a lengthy illness. Jo was born September 2, 1957, in Greenwood, to the late Robert and Francis (Hurst) Shafer.

She graduated from Greenwood High School in 1975. Jo attended Ball State University, earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Education and a Master’s Degree in English from Indiana University. She was an English teacher at the Indiana Girls’ School, Roncalli High School and retired from Avon High School in 2007. Jo enjoyed crafts, antiques, and ran her own booth at Gilley’s Antique Mall for several years. She was an avid reader and fan of Stephen King novels. She also enjoyed an occasional trip to the casino and was comfortable sitting at any blackjack table. Jo was loyal to her family and will be remembered for her kind and loving nature.

Survivors include her husband, Thomas R. Cornelius, to whom she was united in marriage March 25, 1994; children, Rachael Nicole Sawyers, John Brandon Matthew Presnell, Kelly Ann Cunningham, Jamie Leigh Johnson, and Richard Scott Cornelius; sister, Anna Catherine McCartney; twelve grandchildren.

Visitation will be Tuesday, January 26, 2021, 2 to 3:30 p.m., at the Carlisle – Branson Funeral Service & Crematory, Mooresville. The funeral service will follow at 3:30 p.m. Cremation will take place at the Morgan County Crematory, Mooresville. In an effort to create a safe environment, those attending will wear masks and practice physical distancing. Memorial contributions may be made to the Nation Kidney Foundation of Indiana. Visit www.CarlisleBranson.com to share a favorite memory or to sign the online guest registry.