Esther Lucille Barber Cornelio, 83, of Interlachen, passed from this life on Monday, April 3, 2023 at Haven Hospice Roberts Care Center following an extended illness. Born in Palatka, Esther was a 1957 graduate of Palatka Senior High School and had been a long-time resident of Interlachen. Esther had worked 15 years (1970-85) as a secretary at Interlachen Elementary School. She also served many years on the board (secretary) of the Hollister Sweetwater Cemetery Association. In her leisure time, Esther enjoyed her flowers and working in the yard.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Eston and Catherine Barber, 2 sons, Tony Willis and Chris Willis, a brother, Larry Barber and a sister, Betty Methvin.
Esther is survived by her husband of 50 years, Sam Cornelio of Interlachen, a son, Dean Willis of Keystone Heights, a daughter, Sharon Hudson of Ashville, NC, 2 sisters, Bonnie Burke (Joe) of Bardin and Vanda Wilson of Middleburg, 3 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.
Services celebrating Esther’s life will be at 10:00 A.M. Friday, April 7, 2023 at Johnson-Overturf Chapel in Palatka with Dr. L.D. Osteen officiating. Burial will follow at Hollister Sweetwater Cemetery. The family will receive friends Thursday from 6-8 P.M. at Johnson-Overturf Funeral Home in Palatka.
Flowers are gratefully accepted or memorial donations may be sent to Woodlawn Baptist Church, 818 CR 20A, Hawthorne, FL 32640.
Memories and condolences may be expressed to the family at Esther’s Book of Memories page at www.johnsonoverturffunerals.com.
Arrangements are entrusted to Johnson-Overturf Funeral Home in Palatka.