Cornelius (Corny, Connie) Coughlin passed away peacefully at 94, leaving behind a legacy of love, friendship, service, and devotion to family.
Corny was the devoted husband of Willie, his beloved wife of 71 years, who currently resides in memory care. Together they built a life centered on love, laughter, and unwavering commitment to one another. He was a proud and loving father to Tom (Karen), John (Theresa), and Kathy (Bob Rogaczewski), a cherished grandfather to eight grandchildren, and great-grandfather to ten, a beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews, and a loyal friend to all who knew him. His family and friendships were among the greatest joys of his life.
A proud Korean War veteran in the Air Force, Corny served his country with honor. In 2018, he was deeply honored to participate in the Greater St. Louis Honor Flight, an unforgettable experience he treasured.
Following his military service, Corny enjoyed a successful career as a salesman with Procter & Gamble before retiring. Beyond his career, he dedicated much of his life to youth and amateur sports. He began by coaching his sons’ baseball teams in Jefferson Barracks before becoming a respected umpire and official. Corny devoted 50 years to officiating softball and basketball and an additional 25 years to volleyball. His fairness, integrity, and love of the game earned him the respect and admiration of athletes, coaches, fellow officials, and generations of families.
Outside of officiating, Corny found happiness in life’s simple pleasures. He was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan and loved watching them on TV. He and Willie made countless cherished memories vacationing at Lamplighter on Lake of the Ozarks with her brother John, sisters, Dot, and Loretta and their spouses, creating stories and so much laughter that would be shared for generations. Together they also enjoyed a close-knit circle of devoted friends whose companionship filled their lives with fun, adventure, and countless happy times. One of Corny’s greatest joys was spending time with his grandchildren, especially while enthusiastically overseeing backyard basketball games and exciting pool volleyball. As the family grew, he looked forward to every visit with his great-grandchildren, talking with them and watching them play.
Corny found great joy in the comfort of home, where he loved spending time with his beloved “squeeky” dogs on his lap. He will be remembered for his gift of storytelling, quick wit, contagious smile, sharp sense of style, and unwavering devotion to his family, friends, and community. Whether through his military service, his career, his decades of officiating, or simply the friendships he cherished, Corny left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be greatly missed. Corny’s legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the friendships he nurtured, and the countless lives he touched throughout his remarkable life.
SERVICES: Funeral from Kutis Affton Chapel (10151 Gravois Road Affton, Missouri 63123) Monday, August 10, 9:30 a.m. to St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church for 10:00 a.m. Mass. Interment Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers please make a donation in his name to Donate – Greater St. Louis Honor Flight. Visitation Sunday 4:00 – 8:00 p.m.