Cornelius Welford Dabney "Skip" January 19, 1938-September 29, 2015 "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith" 2 Timothy 4:7 Early in the morning on Tuesday, September 29th, at 2:40 a.m., Cornelius heard the bells tolling, answered the call, and peacefully transitioned from labor to reward at Bon Secours Memorial Regional Hospital, Mechanicsville, Virginia. Cornelius was born to the late William Newton Dabney, Sr. and Bertha Ellen Dabney of Ashland, Virginia. He was one of eleven children. His Christian walk began by uniting with Christ at Providence Baptist Church, Ashland, Virginia. His faith was unwavering as evidenced by his love and belief in God, his devotion to his family and unselfish service toward his fellow man. Cornelius received his early education in the Hanover County Public Schools. He worked diligently and faithfully for 35 years as a Maintenance Tech for Randolph Macon-College (Ashland); and worked part-time in the same position for Truckstops of America (TA) before his retirement. On August 14, 1965, he was united in holy matrimony with Vernell Smithers. To this union, three children were born. He was a beloved husband, devoted father and grandfather. He was kind, loving, and possessed a gift to put others at comfort. He never met a stranger without becoming friends. He never lost his sense of humor. Cornelius touched the lives of many people with his smile, generosity, and maintained his trademark sense of humor until his final flight into His Father's House. He loved listening to music, dancing, cars, laughing, politics, and being with family and friends. He enjoyed the simplicity of life and was often found reflecting outside, enjoying nature. He was empathetic, insightful, and willing to help others in need. "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which in in Heaven" (Matthew 5:16). Cornelius was a kind and loving person with a quick wit and keen sense of humor. He was an aficionado of classic cars, spending countless hours, polishing each and every inch of his vehicles. His love for his family was immeasurable, as he took pride in each accomplishment, often boasting and bantering proudly about what good things would happen next in their lives. He was predeceased by his parents, William and Bertha Ellen Dabney; brothers, William, Jr., Dorry, and Norman; and one sister, Yvonne. Cornelius leaves to cherish his lasting legacy and loving memory, his wife of 50 years, Vernell Smithers Dabney of Ashland; one son, Rev. Reginald Dabney (Lisa); daughters, Tina Dabney-Morton (Stephen), and Monica Dabney. Two brothers, Sie Dabney (Anna); Everett Dabney (Delores); Three Sisters, Elaine Wright (Michael), Ernestine Jones and Lorraine Trueheart (Fleming); Sisters in laws, Jeanette Smithers Jones, Claretha Smithers Ector, Helen Smithers and Ernestine Dabney: Brothers-in-laws, Manley P. Smithers, Jr., Moses Ector, and Harvey Smithers; several grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and countless friends whom were blessed to know him.