Janice Claire Cornely, 92

Janice Claire Cornely, 92, passed away peacefully on July 9, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, generosity, and unwavering devotion to family and community.
Janice was born on February 22, 1934, in Beloit, Kansas, to Perry and Gladys Lomax. She was the eldest of four children and spent her childhood on Carr Creek, seven miles south of Cawker City, on a farm homesteaded by her great-grandfather. The home in which she was raised was built by her grandfather, and thanks to her foresight, the family farm remains in the family today-a testament to the deep roots and traditions that shaped her life.
After graduating from high school, Janice attended business college in Denver, Colorado. Returning to north-central Kansas, she began her career at the National Bank of Downs. After several years in banking, she joined the Cawker City school system as a secretary and, following school unification, became the clerk for USD 272. She faithfully served the district for approximately 30 years before retiring, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues, students, and families throughout the community.
Janice believed that serving others was one of life's greatest callings. She was an active member of the Cawker City Methodist Church as well as Bookkeeper for 40 years and dedicated countless hours to improving her community. She proudly served multiple terms on the Cawker City Council, worked tirelessly as secretary-treasurer of the Hesperian Historical Society, and was sec/treasurer for the Prairie Grove Cemetery Board. Her commitment to preserving local history and strengthening her hometown reflected her deep love for the place she called home.
Those who knew Janice will remember her generous spirit and compassionate heart. She never hesitated to lend a helping hand to someone in need, and her home was always open. Many of her children's friends came to think of her as a second mother, welcomed with warmth, encouragement, and unconditional love.
Janice had a gift for making every day special. She took pride in always looking her best, whether attending church, running errands, or simply visiting with friends. She had a keen eye for style and carried herself with grace and confidence wherever she went.
Her interests were many. She loved to travel, and when the children were young, she managed to travel with them to Canada, Mexico, and the western United States. In later years, she had the opportunity to travel with her children to Ecuador, Colombia, Puerto Rico, Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas and many times to Chicago creating treasured memories along the way. Always up for an adventure-whether it involved motorcycles, four-wheelers, or zip lining-she was often first in line. She found joy in painting beautiful works of art and nurturing flowers and gardens that reflected her appreciation for God's creation. Later in life, she developed a love for the performing arts and delighted in attending plays and productions throughout Salina and the surrounding communities.
A passionate sports fan, Janice rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on Kansas State University in football and basketball, the Kansas City Chiefs, or any team that featured one of her children or grandchildren. Her enthusiasm was contagious, and she celebrated every victory with the same excitement she brought to every aspect of her life.
She also had an insatiable curiosity about the world around her. A devoted follower of current events and politics, Janice was the family's trusted source for the latest news and political happenings. Rarely did a day pass when she couldn't share an update or engage in a thoughtful discussion about the issues that mattered to her.
Above all else, Janice's greatest love was her family. Nothing brought her more happiness than gathering with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Their accomplishments, celebrations, and everyday moments filled her heart with immeasurable pride and joy.
Janice was first married to John Schoen, and together they were blessed with four children, seven grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren. Later in life, she married John Cornely, and they shared 26 years of marriage until his passing.
She is lovingly remembered by her children and their families: Steve Schoen and his wife Liliana, and their son Connor; Stan Schoen and his wife Denise, and their son John; Stacey and her husband Jim, and her children, Chelsea and her son, Raylan; Chynna and her children, Bentley, Greyson, and Charli; and Chancelor and his wife, Darby; and Jim's children Amy, Brandy, and Darcy an their families; Stuart Schoen and his wife, Julie, and their children, Erin and her husband, Nathan, and their children, Lauren and Addison; and Dalton and his wife, Brittany, and their children, Kyler and Kamryn. These beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren were among the many blessings of her life.
She is also survived by her brother Jim's extended family, her sister Joyce and her brother John and his extended family, and Cousin Bob Lomax and his extended family. Additionally, stepchildren, Gary, Cathy, and Chuck Cornely and their 8 children ; along with many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless friends whose lives were enriched by her kindness.
She was preceded in death by her husband, John Cornely; her stepson, John; and her brother, Jim Lomax.
Janice's life was one of faith, compassion, service, and unconditional love. She greeted each day with optimism, a welcoming smile, and a heart that always put others first. She leaves behind not only memories but an enduring example of generosity, civic pride, strength, and grace.
Though her family mourns her passing, they rejoice in knowing that her legacy lives on in the lives she touched, the community she helped build, and the family she loved beyond measure. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

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Janice Claire Cornely, 92

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