70s Country Icon Passes Away & Tributes Flood In

The music industry is in mourning as 70s country icon Helen Cornelius has sadly passed away. Helen made a significant impact on country music as a whole, but many of her biggest singles were duets with Jim Ed Brown. Some of the most notable include “Fools” and “I Don’t Want to Have to Marry You.” She was 83 years old.

Born Helen Lorene Johnson, the iconic singer hailed from Monroe City, Missouri. She came from a musical family and even toured locally with her siblings at a young age. Helen Cornelius later got her official start in the music industry in 1970 as a songwriter. 

Helen Cornelius Passed Away on July 18

Someone from the Official Helen Cornelius Fan Page on Facebook announced the news of her death on July 20. They wrote on the page, “Hi, Susan here… I guess I have to post as the page in order for me to pin the post… Facebook is not always user-friendly!”

Susan continued, “I’ve heard from Christy, and Helen did pass yesterday (July 18) morning. I plan on keeping this page open as you all have posted such lovely photos of yourselves with Helen. If you’d like to post a favorite photo or memory, please feel free!”

She went on to discuss one of her favorite memories of Helen Cornelius, saying, “I think one of my favorite memories was eating Domino’s & watching Tennessee football in her living room! The Vols lost, but that was ok… we still had fun!”

Susan then said, “Oh wait… another one, I was out front setting up the merch table & my dog Harry Potter was hanging out in the dressing room. Jim Ed left the door open & HP wandered out on stage… thankfully, it was during rehearsal & not during the show! Oh, so many wonderful memories!!”

Fans Are Paying Tribute To The Legendary Singer

Naturally, Helen Cornelius has a legacy that will last forever. As a result, many fans have taken to social media to share kind words upon her passing. One fan from the Facebook page remarked, “Her stories on Nashville Now were my funniest moments. Especially her story about the wardrobe malfunction! My mama and her share the same nickname… Little Bit.”

The comment continued, “She might have been little, but she sure had a big heart and gave us all big beautiful memories!” Someone else said, “I used to babysit her children when they lived in Hannibal, MO. She also sang at my wedding June 12, 1971. I loved her voice and was happy for her successful music career. So sorry to hear of her passing and will keep her family in my prayers.”

Another fan recalled meeting Helen Cornelius, writing, “So sorry to hear of Helen’s passing. Met her and Jim Ed at Fan Fair many years ago. And always enjoyed hearing them sing. I miss the good ole days when the performers actually took the time to visit with their fans, not like today’s performers. Helen will be greatly missed, and Heaven has gained another beautiful person and voice.”