Cornelius Stearns' Obituary
Cornelius Raymond Stearns, Jr. (known affectionately to family and friends as “Ray” or “Jr.”) was born on December 6, 1943 in Marshall, Texas to his father, Cornelius Stearns Sr., a Methodist Minister, and mother Marzetta “Mert” Stearns, the Church’s First Lady.
After divorcing his cheating father, Jr’s mother moved Jr., and his only sibling “Pat,” to San Diego circa 1948, where he resided until his death.
Jr. earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Education, and a Master of Science in Counseling, both from San Diego State University.
He also earned a Standard Services Credential from the State of California (1975); as well as Credentials from California Community Colleges for Counselor (1976); and Community College Instructor (1976). Never one to rest on his laurels, Jr. went on to earn Certificates from San Diego City Schools in Language Development Specialist Training (1992-93); and Clear Cross-cultural, Language and Academic Development (1995).
Jr. was a teacher for San Diego Schools for 30 years. He taught at Memorial Jr. High School, Horace Mann Jr. High School, San Diego High School, Crawford High School and Serra High School. He educated students in English, English as a Second Language, U.S. History, Black History, Geography and Social Studies. He also ran several counseling programs. Known affectionately by his students as “Mr. Stearns,” Jr was well liked and was often sent to teach at the most difficult “inner city” schools.
Jr received several awards and accolades for his commitment to teaching San Diego’s youth. In September 2001, San Diego City Schools awarded him a Certificate in “Appreciation of many years of outstanding public service and dedication.” And in 2002 the Board of Education of San Diego City Schools gave him special recognition for his “many contributions to the young people of San Diego.”
Jr. also loved camping. Every summer, when school was out, he would spend at least a month deep in Baja California, Mexico with his friends. They would be so far away from civilization, they had to bring all of their own supplies, including food, gasoline, and water. And the only meat they ate was the fresh fish they caught in the Pacific Ocean.
Jr also dabbled in photography. All of the flower pictures in the tribute slideshow that was playing during his viewing were taken by him.
Jr was a wonderfully congenial, kind, and loving man who will be terribly missed.
Jr. was preceded in death by his father, Cornelius Stearns, Sr.; mother Marzetta “Mert” Stearns; and sister Edith Patricia “Pat” Long. He is survived by his brother-in-law Tilman Long; nephew La’Mar Brown; and niece and longtime caregiver Cupcake La’Vette Brown; as well as a host of friends, relatives, and former students.
What’s your fondest memory of Cornelius?
What’s a lesson you learned from Cornelius?
Share a story where Cornelius' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Cornelius you’ll never forget.
How did Cornelius make you smile?
