In Loving Memory

Photo of Laura Cornwall

Laura Cornwall

November 5, 1934 — May 18, 2026

Laura Cornwall, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, peacefully passed away on May 18, 2026, at the age of 91. Born on November 5, 1934, in the charming town of Wilton, New Hampshire, Laura was the cherished daughter of Warren B and Elizabeth M Horne. Her life was a testament to love, compassion, and unwavering dedication to her family, profession, and community. Laura's early years in Wilton were marked by her boundless curiosity and a strong desire to care for others, traits that would guide her throughout her life. She graduated from Wilton High School with honors and pursued her passion for nursing at the esteemed Peter Bent Brigham School of Nursing in Boston, Massachusetts. Furthering her education, Laura earned an MBA from Emmanuel College in Boston, showcasing her commitment to excellence and lifelong learning. In 1956, Laura married the love of her life, John R Cornwall, on July 28th. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and shared adventures. Their marriage was a beautiful partnership that spanned decades until John's passing. Laura's heart was forever touched by their beautiful daughter, Linda M Swidler, who predeceased her, leaving behind cherished memories of love and joy. Laura's career as a Registered Nurse was illustrious and impactful. She began her vocation at the prestigious Peter Bent Brigham Hospital in Boston, where she provided critical care in the Emergency Room with unmatched skill and compassion. Her expertise and dedication led her to the Hebrew Rehabilitation Center in Roslindale, Massachusetts, where she became the Director of Nursing. In this role, she supported the medical group specializing in Geriatric and Internal Medicine, touching countless lives with her care and kindness. A pillar in her community, Laura was an active supporter of the Boys and Girls Clubs of America and dedicated many years to community service at Sacred Heart Church in Roslindale, Saint Maria Goretti in Lynnfield, and St. Peter the Apostle Parish in Naples, Florida. Her faith and service were guiding lights in her life, reflecting her deep commitment to helping others. Laura's life was enriched by her love of cooking, a gift she shared generously at family gatherings, where her dishes were savored and celebrated. A voracious reader, she delighted in exploring new worlds through literature, and her adventurous spirit led her to travel the globe and embark on numerous ocean cruises with cherished social groups. Her legacy continues through her surviving children: daughter Lorraine Cornwall-Shannon, son John and his spouse Catharine Cornwall, and son Richard and his spouse Jane Cornwall. Laura was the proud grandmother of six grandchildren: Patrick, Lauren, and Sarah Swidler, and Scott, Christopher, and Julia Shannon, and she treasured her many great-grandchildren and nieces. Laura was predeceased by her parents, Warren and Elizabeth Horne, her sister Mary E Horne-Bulley, her husband John, and her daughter Linda. Their memories remained alive in her heart, cherished and celebrated throughout her life. A service to honor Laura's remarkable life will be held on July 8, 2026, at Immaculate Conception Parish, located at 216 East Dunstable Rd., Nashua, NH 03062-2344. Family, friends, and all whose lives were touched by Laura are invited to join in this celebration of her life, a life defined by love, service, and a remarkable dedication to family and community. Though she is no longer with us, Laura's spirit lives on in the hearts of all who knew her, a testament to a life well-lived and a legacy of love that will endure for generations.