Cornelius was born on January 31, 1949, to Ruby and Isaiah Williams in Vallejo, California.  He was the third of eight children; his dad, Isaiah Williams, and older sister, Rhonda Jill Bennett, preceded him in death.

Cornelius attended Golden Gate Elementary school and graduated from Oakland Technical High School in 1967.

Cornelius was quiet, however if he were motivated, you could not turn him off.  As many have expressed, Cornelius was a kind soul to all that knew him.  He had a disability as a child, and he never complained or used his disability as an excuse.  In fact, most did not realize he had a disability.

Cornelius was passionate around his family, painting and yard work, early on.  He was, frequently, referred by others for painting their homes – he was meticulous.  Fond memories were his detail to completing yard work at the family’s home on 57th street, in Oakland.

Cornelius loved being with his family, playing dominoes, playing bid whist, watching sports and hanging with his friends at the Bank Club.  Three of his close friends - for many years, visited and checked on him, often, during his illness; Curtis Jones, Oscar Turner and Howard Jones have been great friends and are commended.

Cornelius leaves to cherish his memories his mom, Ruby Williams; three brothers, Ronald, Nathan and Eric Williams; three sisters, Nelva Kaye Crawford, Cassandra and Yvette Williams; additionally, a loving host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends!  We celebrate your life, today, Cornelius Clinton Williams!