Elaine Francis Reese (nee Cornelison) decided she’d had enough of this earthly realm and gracefully ascended to the heavens on December 31, 2024, at the vibrant age of 80.  Born on April 6, 1944, in Cleveland, Ohio.

Elaine’s parents, Alice Hamilton and Buford Cornelison knew she was going to fit right in with her other siblings when they welcomed her into the world. A graduate of John Adams High School, she went right off to work to make her mark in the world.

Elaine held administrative positions with Cuyahoga County, Lempco and Handle-IT before retiring.

She loved reading her Bible, writing scriptures, attending church at St. Paul Methodist Church and especially spending time with her family.  Elaine loved music and dancing, watch out if Al Green “Love and Happiness” came on, she was grabbing someone’s hand to hand dance with and she would be singing along as if she was doing a concert in her living room.

Elaine leaves behind a family who will carry on her legacy of love, laughter, and good times; her sister Joan, sons Terence Sr. and Tracy (Elaine), daughter Sarena, her step-children Eddie Reese III, Michael Reese and Linda Kay Diane Reese (father Eddie Reese Jr. deceased) as well as 7 grandchildren ChaRonda (Jarrett), D’Angelo, Dwan, Terence Jr., Diamond, Terrence Jr. and Terrell.  Her 5 great-grandchildren Cailynn, Caileb, Terrence III, Amiya and Aurora; and a galaxy of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Preceding her in death was her eldest sister Cynthia Raiford and recently her sister Alice Faye Hampton, her beloved brothers, Jake, Ike and Washington, as well as her first born daughter Rayshawn Cornelison.

Elaine will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Rest easy, Elaine—you’ve earned it.