HR0600 104TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0600 LRB104 17638 LAW 31069 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois House of Representatives are saddened to learn of the death of Cornell Lincoln Wright Jr., who passed away on December 25, 2025; and

WHEREAS, Cornell Wright was born to Cornell Wright Sr. and Lois (Montgomery) Wright in Knoxville, Tennessee on July 2, 1938; he was raised in Knoxville, where he received his early education and graduated from Austin High School; he served in the United States Armed Forces during the Vietnam War; upon returning from military service, he settled in Detroit, Michigan, where he earned a degree in child growth and development from Wayne State University; he married Barbara Crooks, and they relocated to Peoria, Illinois, where they built their home and raised their family; and

WHEREAS, Cornell Wright dedicated many years to a distinguished career as a correctional officer, faithfully working third shift, often through long and demanding nights; during his career, he became known for his integrity, calm demeanor, and strong sense of responsibility; he was also an entrepreneur as the owner of Tony's Liquor, a neighborhood convenience store that reflected his work ethic, independence, and commitment to providing for his family; and

WHEREAS, Cornell Wright, in retirement, continued serving his community as a substitute teacher, offering patience, wisdom, and steady guidance to students, and through civic engagement, taking pride in running local election polls to ensure fairness, order, and respect in the democratic process; and

WHEREAS, Cornell Wright was committed to his faith and a devoted member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon and often worked behind the scenes, running the church audio system to ensure that every sermon, song, and prayer was heard clearly; his service was quiet, dependable, and deeply appreciated by his church family; and

WHEREAS, Cornell Wright, affectionately known as "Tony" and "Sonny", was a devoted husband, a proud father, a mentor, and a public servant whose life was defined by service, faith, discipline, and unwavering devotion to family and community; and

WHEREAS, Cornell Wright was preceded in death by his sister, Mary Frances Strong; and

WHEREAS, Cornell Wright is survived by his wife, Barbara J. Wright; his children, Cornell Lincoln Wright III, Courtney Wright, and Dr. Yolanda Wright-Lowry; seven grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED FOURTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we mourn the passing of Cornell Lincoln Wright Jr. and extend our sincere condolences to his family, friends, and all who knew and loved him; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the family of Cornell Wright as an expression of our deepest sympathy.