Bennie C. Highsmith, age 77, passed away on October 31, 2022.

Bennie “Cornell” Highsmith (affectionately known as Cornell) was born on March 20, 1945, in Cleveland, OH. He was the third of eight children born to the late Mr. Hubbard and Mrs. Uria D. Highsmith.

Cornell gave his life to Christ at an early age at the Second Mount Carmel Baptist Church, under the pastoral care of Rev. B.G. Gilbert, and later, Rev. Charles D. Gant. He continued to attend there throughout his life. He graduated from Max Hayes Trade/Technical High School, and immediately entered the United States Air Force where he served 4 years of active-duty service honorably. Immediately following military service, he began working for Fisher Body Coit Road Plant, and owned various businesses throughout his life. Most notably, he enjoyed a long career as a bus driver with Cleveland’s Regional Transit Authority (RTA) for over 30 years until his retirement.

Cornell had a brief marriage with the late Florence Powers and together they shared two sons, Clifford and Marlon. He also shared one son, Cornell Highsmith (“CJ”), with his dear friend, Jeanette Hayden.

Cornell loved his family, was generous, and always helped people whenever he could. He told funny stories, jokes, and made everyone laugh during many family gatherings. He loved spending his spare time building, repairing, remodeling, and refurbishing in and around his home and the homes of his family members. His other hobbies included fishing, hunting, spending time on his computer, and enjoying retired life.

He encountered and pushed through many health challenges until passing away in his home. He is preceded in death by his parents Hubbard and Uria, brothers Marvin and Jerome, sisters Barbara and Loretta, and one son who passed away as a young child (also named Cornell).

Cornell leaves to mourn and cherish his memory: his sons, Clifford and Marlon (Erica) Powers, and Cornell (“CJ”) Highsmith; brothers Melvin, Lamar, and Robert Highsmith; niece, Kimberly Gordon; nephews Zachary (Stephanie) and Damon (Diana) Highsmith, and Melvin (“Nick”) Robinson, grandchildren Desiree “Dessi,” Destiny, Clifford, Jr., Christian, Marlon, Jr., and Briana Powers, and Kaylei Highsmith; and a host of great-grandchildren, cousins, extended family, and other relatives.

He will be dearly missed.