Aleigha Cornelius

Aleigha Cornelius, a radiant soul known for her loving nature and spirited kindness, passed away at the tender age of 17 in Midland City, Alabama, on September 27, 2024. Born on July 5, 2007, in Dothan, Alabama, to David and Misty Cornelius, Aleigha grew up as a kind and patient child whose radiant smile and sweet demeanor touched the hearts of everyone she met.

Aleigha demonstrated her academic prowess as a dual enrollment student at Wallace Community College and Ridgecrest Christian School. She was on track to earn her Associate of Arts degree and her high school diploma in May with a 4.41 GPA . She hoped to build on this educational foundation at Florida State University. Aleigha shared her musical gifts and talent as she became an integral part of the Tri- State Community Orchestra and the Wiregrass Youth Orchestra. She was admired by her peers and mentors alike. Aleigha and her family attend Church of the Crossing in Dothan.

Her family was the cornerstone of her life. Aleigha is survived by her loving parents, David and Misty Cornelius; her brothers, Keegan Young (Chelsea), Marshall Cornelius, and Hudson Cornelius; and her sisters, Alyssa Duque (Kevin), Abigail Cornelius, and Alaina Cornelius. She was the cherished granddaughter of Judy Fleming, Jim and Diane Bellotti, Becky Cornelius, and Brenda Milligan. She is also survived by her niece and nephew, Kinslee Young and Ethan St. Peters. She leaves behind her puppy, Maverick who adored her. Her home was filled with love, as she formed special bonds with the many foster children who stayed with her family, each of them touched by her kindness and generosity. Aleigha was preceded in death by her grandfathers, Ashley Fleming and Ted Cornelius, who no doubt welcomed her with open arms.

Aleigha's interests were as varied as they were deep. She was musically inclined, often found with an instrument in hand, perfecting her art. She taught herself to play the ukulele, cello, electric and acoustic guitars. She also knew how to play piano, viola, and violin. Yet, she was also a child at heart, delighting in building Legos and reveling in the magical experiences of Disney World with her family. Aleigha was beautiful inside and out, and those who knew her would agree that her presence was a gift to this world. Aleigha was also a talented performer, gracing the stage in numerous plays with SEACT, where she brought characters to life with her passion and energy.

Words alone cannot encapsulate the essence of Aleigha Cornelius. She was loving, spirited, and kind—qualities that defined her and left an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to have felt her warmth. Her sense of humor was a beacon of joy, and her spirit was as infectious as it was endearing.

Aleigha's life, though brief, was one of profound impact. She exemplified what it means to live with a generous and Christ-like heart and a soul full of music. Her memory will be treasured as a melody that continues to resonate in the lives of her family and friends.

Aleigha's legacy is one of love and music, a reminder to all of us to cherish each day and to live with a kindness that echoes beyond our years. She may have departed from this world, but her spirit remains, a gentle whisper in the harmony of life's symphony. Aleigha will be deeply missed, but the beauty of her life will continue to inspire all who knew her, now and forevermore.

Robert and Toni Byrd · Sunset Memorial Park

1700 Barrington Rd, Midland City AL · (334) 983-6604