Cornelius James McCuen

Life Reflections

Cornelius James McCuen, known as CJ to family and friends, passed away peacefully on June 23, 2023 at the age of 78, surrounded by his loving family. Though he is gone, the laughter and joy he brought to the lives of so many will live on forever.

Cornelius was born on March 18, 1945, in Alexandria, Louisiana, to H.B McCuen and Emma McCuen. He was raised by his loving grandparents, Cornelius V. McCuen and Annie McCuen, in Flint, Texas. One of eight children, he was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Nicholas Oliver and Aubrey Vivian Berry. He accepted Jesus Christ at a young age and was a member of Lee Spring Baptist Church in Flint, Texas. He attended Emmett Scott High School in Tyler, Texas, where he made many lifelong friends.

Not long after he graduated, Cornelius moved to Houston, Texas, where he met his loving wife Gladys McCuen. They spent 50 years building a wonderful life together. They raised two daughters, Angela Holmes (Clyde Holmes preceded in death) and Tonya Edwards. He enjoyed spending time playing dominoes with his late son-in-law Clyde Holmes and his friends and family during birthday parties and gatherings. They were filled with laughter from his hilarious stories and jokes. His sense of humour and ability to find joy in the simple things in life brought light to every occasion. He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Gladys McCuen; his children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends.

He worked for a local hardware company that sold locks for over 30 years. He enjoyed helping customers find the right equipment for their needs. He had a gift for explaining how things worked in a simple and humorous way. Customers loved chatting with him and hearing his latest jokes.

CJ will be remembered for his kind heart, quick wit and love for his family and friends. He touched the lives of all who knew him and will be dearly missed.