Zyta Maria Cornwell

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mrs. Zyta Cornwell of Huntington, West Virginia on March 20, 2022. Zyta passed peacefully, surrounded by her family. Zyta was born in Dziemiany Kascierayna, Poland on May 28, 1942, to Boleslaw and Marianna Dobek. At two years old she was separated from her family due to the war in Europe; she would be reunited with them in October 1957 at fifteen years of age when she came to live in Chicago, Illinois. One of Zyta’s proudest achievements was becoming a United States citizen. It was in Chicago that she met her husband, Billy Cornwell. After the births of their first two children, they moved back to Bill’s hometown of Huntington, West Virginia where they raised their family. Zyta worked at Heck’s department store, and at Big Lots in West Huntington for many years until her retirement. Zyta was an inspiration to all who knew her. Her laugh filled the room, and her heart loved fiercely. She was brave, bold, tough, and kind. Zyta was preceded in death by her son John Edward Cornwell; husband of 49 years Billy Jack Cornwell; brothers Zenon Dobek, Michael Dobek, John Dobek, and stepbrother Bronislaw Dobek; sisters Janina Kostur and Luta Jeszke; as well as her parents. She is survived by her son Raymond Cornwell and his wife Emily, her daughter Tammy Cornwell, her granddaughters Lindy McClellan (Jordan) and Sophie Cornwell, and her great grandson Brodee McClellan. Zyta’s grandchildren knew her as their beloved Babcia; she was their best friend and biggest cheerleader. Zyta is also survived by brothers Alojzy Dobek (Roma), Joseph Dobek (Ronda) and Sigmund Dobek (Rina); and sisters Genia Orawiec and Veronica Odjana. Zyta also had a host of dear nieces, nephews, in-laws, and other family members, as well as many many friends. A funeral service will be held at Reger Funeral Home in Huntington, West Virginia on Thursday March 24, 2022. Visitation will be held from 11am – 1pm, the service will be held at 1pm, with a private burial to follow the service. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.regerfh.com.