Jeffrey "Jeff" Homer Cornell

Jeffrey “Jeff” Homer Cornell, 66, of Albany, Georgia, passed away Thursday, September 17, 2026, at his residence.

Born May 11, 1960, in Syracuse, New York, Jeff was the son of the late Homer and Elizabeth Keller Cornell. He worked for M&M Mars, Inc. for 34 years as a Maintenance Technician and also spent time teaching at Albany Technical College in the welding department.

Jeff lived life with an adventurous spirit and was always a kid at heart. A natural tinkerer, he loved working with his hands and could often be found fixing, building, or taking something apart just to figure out how it worked. He loved the outdoors, hunting, fishing, NASCAR, classic cars, playing bass guitar, and listening to the blues. He also enjoyed annual trips to Panama City Beach, where go-kart racing and goofy golf became favorite traditions.

Jeff had a big personality and an even bigger heart. He loved to laugh, joke, tell stories, and enjoy the simple things in life. He valued friendship deeply, and many of the lifelong friends he made became family to him.

Above all, Jeff loved his family fiercely. His only daughter, Sarah, was the light of his world. He welcomed her husband, Colbi, as one of his own and was incredibly proud to become a grandfather to Cooper in 2025. Despite significant health challenges during the final years of his life, Jeff continued to fight for more time with the people he loved and was blessed with the opportunity to meet and hold his grandson.

Jeff was a firm believer and follower of Jesus Christ. His family finds peace in knowing that his earthly struggles are over and that he is now resting with the Lord.

Jeff is survived by his daughter, Sarah McDaniels and her husband, Colbi, of Knoxville, Tennessee; his grandson, Cooper McDaniels; his former wife and longtime friend, Tracy Kristalakis; and many dear friends he considered family.

No formal services will be held at this time. A celebration of Jeff’s life will be planned and announced at a later date.

Jeff will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, his humor, his big heart, the friendships he treasured, and the tremendous love he gave to those fortunate enough to know him.