Nala Cornelius

March 5, 1993 - March 16, 2023

Nala Cornelius, 30, of Lafayette, passed away Thursday, March 16, 2023, unexpectedly at Franciscan Health East, Lafayette from a genetic heart condition.

Born Ned Cornelius on March 5, 1993, to Chad Richard and Nichola Leslie (Jordan) Cornelius in Las Vegas, Nevada. Ned graduated from Alpena High School in Alpena, Michigan. In 2017, Nala Cornelius was officially born. Nala married the love of her life, Leslie Kay Daniels on August 8, 2020, in Fountain Co.

Dealing with health issues and misunderstanding her whole life, Nala was a fighter who showed nothing but love and forgiveness to everyone. She enjoyed experimental cooking, going for walks, swimming no matter the weather, making everyone laugh, and many different crafts. She was a genuinely happy and cheeky person who did her best to share the happiness and love that she felt with all. Although there were those who may not have understood Nala’s life, she loved them unconditionally, she loved her enemies as she loved her family and friends. Her smile could light up the darkest room. Her laugh will forever be music to us all. Nala’s strength came from a deep love within.

This world we all live in wasn’t deserving of an Angel like Nala. The kindness and love that flowed through their soul was unmatched. She will continue to guide us towards our happiness because that’s all she wanted from this lifetime, for everyone in the world to feel love and true happiness. The love and happiness will live on through Nala, always.

Along with her wife, Leslie, she is survived by girlfriend, Katrina Bertine; her parents, Chad and Nichola Cornelius; 4 siblings, Jaz Jordan, Poppy Cornelius, Rosebud Cornelius, and Archie Cornelius; as well as 3 beloved cats, Neo, Gracie, and Apollo. Nala was preceded in death by her pal and guardian, Gussy the Goose.

Private family services will be held.

Soller-Baker Funeral Homes, Inc.

Ann ohl

Jennifer

Grace Smith

Tamera Reed

Dani Bradbury

Aimiee Trail

Kayle Jellesma

Allison Loveday

Jayne Cundy and family

Amari D McCoy

Sarah Gerow

Nala Cornelius, 30, of Lafayette, passed away Thursday, March 16, 2023, unexpectedly at Franciscan Health East, Lafayette from a genetic heart condition. Born Ned Cornelius on March 5, 1993, to Chad Richard and Nichola Leslie (Jordan) Cornelius in Las Vegas, Nevada. Ned graduated from Alpena High School in Alpena, Michigan. In 2017, Nala Cornelius wasContinue Reading

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In memory of Nala Cornelius, Ann ohl lit a candle

Nikki and Chad, We are truly heartbroken for your family. Sending you all our ❤️.

I am so sorry for your loss prayers and hugs

In memory of Nala Cornelius, Grace Smith lit a candle

My heartfelt prayers are daily for family. I’m so sorry for all your pain, only time can heal?

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

So very sorry to hear. Your work family is here if you need anything!

I am so very sorry to hear of your tragic loss! I cannot imagine your sorrow. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I am sending you all the love I can gather together with all my heart. I am here, whatever you need. I am so very, very sorry!

She was a beautiful person inside and out

Nala was one of my first friends. It is devastating to know she went so young.

So so sorry for your loss, thinking of you Nic, chad and family ❤️

In memory of Nala Cornelius, Jayne Cundy and family lit a candle

We are stunned by the news and send our love and prayers to all the family. Taken far far too soon. Heaven has gained a beautiful spirit. There is new star shining brightly in the sky now. Love to you all, Jayne and family xx

In Memory of Nala all I can say is she was always a sweet person at heart I will deeply miss our deep conversations on life,love and friendships . And I will forever keep her in my heart as one of my most influential and valuable friends that I have ever known and can happily say even platonically loved . May she rest in peace.... I wish the best towards the family and her wife going through this hard time .. XoXo R.I.P

In memory of Nala Cornelius, Sarah Gerow lit a candle

You will be so missed, you had a heart of gold and a soul to match it. Much luv xoxoxo. Nicki, Chad, Jaz, poppy ,rose @ archie. Hugs to you all. So so sorry. Biggest hugs. Luv u.

I wish you rest and peacefull life on the other side❤️

A beautiful soul who leaves a huge void in this world. RIP xx

Nicky and family, I am so sorry for this terrible loss. I love you all and I'm here if you need anything

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

You will remain in our hearts forever! And we will remember you as the beautiful soul that sparkled so brightly in our world ❤️ love you always

am sorry for your lost she was great friend she will be missed

I'm so sorry for your loss

I didn't get to know Nala well, but from what I have heard she was a wonderful person. I am so sorry for Leslie and both families, that you have all lost such a bright light in your lives. ❤

In memory of Nala Cornelius, Megan patrick lit a candle

My dear baby girl I’m so sorry for your loss and pain. Sending you hugs and prayers . May everyone feel love .

Nala was a wonderful person who was always there when you needed someone, a shoulder to cry on. I remember in high school Nala was one of the first people I had met. She helped me adjust into high school life and that friendship will never be forgotten. Lots of love and prayers.

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.