Cornelia Gertrude (Gibson) Coverdale
August 14, 1934 - October 25, 2024
Cornelia Gertrude (Gibson) Coverdale, of Philadelphia, PA, passed away on the evening of Friday, October 25, 2024, at the age of 90.
She was born in Philadelphia on August 14, 1934, to the late Rev. Elmer P. Gibson and Jeffrie Melnese Gibson and was the sister of Elmer Gibson. Growing up in a U.S. Army Chaplain’s family, her childhood was marked by frequent travel, which instilled in her a deep appreciation for diverse people and perspectives. Throughout her life, she lived in various places across the country, with Chicago, Illinois and Berkeley, California being particularly dear to her heart.
Professionally, Cornelia made her mark as a television producer in Chicago, IL. She also dedicated much of her life to nonprofit organizations, particularly Women Organized Against Rape and The American Friends Service Committee.
A defining aspect of Cornelia’s life was the relationships she maintained with family and long-time friends. She was married twice; her three sons were from her first marriage to Clive Luke Miller, and her two daughters were from her second marriage to Herbert Linwood Coverdale. She had a special bond with her five children and four grandchildren, appreciating the unique differences between them. She excelled at making each individual feel special, never expecting them to conform to their siblings’ characteristics. She truly valued their distinct personalities.
Among her many interests and involvements, Cornelia was passionate about genealogy, spending time with her pets, reading, writing, music, playing the piano, and painting. Tracing her family roots through genealogy brought her immense joy and allowed her to honor their legacy. She also had a deep faith in Christ, joining the Episcopal Church in 1961.
Cornelia is survived by her five children: Clive Miller, Eric Miller, Geoffrey Miller, Valerie Coverdale, and Christina Watlington; her son-in-law Malik Muhammad; and her four grandchildren: Meagan, Ngozi, Sadiki, and Nyome, who will continue to carry on her spirit of love and laughter.
A visitation for family and friends will be held from 3 pm until 4 pm on Friday, November 1, 2024, at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 275 East Main Street, Middletown, DE, where a funeral service will begin at 4 pm. Interment will be held privately.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Cornelia’s memory to Faithful Friends, 165 Airport Road, New Castle, DE 19720 or online by clicking here.
Patricia Shurn Thompson
My heart is heavy. She will be missed. I am so happy that I had the opportunity to meet her and share so many conversations and words of wisdom.
Rest in Heaven with the ancestors dear Cornelia.
Donna Cabbell
She was a beautiful person who will be missed but forever remembered!
Chelle Roberts-Jones
Dear Miss Cornelia,
Although we’ve never met I feel a deep connection through Christina, your remarkable daughter. Your dedication to raising her has yielded incredible fruit! Christina’s heart of gold and kindness has lifted me during some challenging times. You’ve raised an incredible woman.
Thank you for sharing her with me and nurturing her compassionate spirit!!
Warm regards,
Chelle, Christina’s Sorority Sister
Charlotte Miller-Lacy
Christina and family our heartfelt condolences to you and your family. Our prayers and thoughts are with you all.
Charlotte Miller-Lacy and Family
Tina Adams
Sending heartfelt condolences to the family members of our long time friend, neighbor and confidant. A sense of peace and love will remain in our hearts and soul as her beautiful smile and laughter will never be forgotten.
Francis e Wright
So sorry to hear about the loss of your mom . You know we go way back to the late 50s . I will keep all you guys in my prayers. Much love ❤️
The Wright Family
The loss of your Mom, sister, has saddened our entire family. Our hearts go out to you during this time. May happy memories of your family give you peace and comfort. We offer you our heartfelt condolences.
– The Wright Family
ANGELICA VIDRO
My heart and prayers are with your family. Sending love and light to you all.
Tarik A Porter
Dear Family of Cornelia, my Sincerest Condolences to you all in the passing of your mom. Cornelia was an important and meaningful part of my youth. She was always supportive of me and a dear friend. She will be missed. God Bless you all.
Melissa Lichtle and Family
Sending Love and Light to you all on the loss of Cornelia. Cornelia’s vivacious, vibrant presence and humor has always brought a smile to my heart. I will miss her. I will always remember Cornelia saying to me “Look at my beautiful children!” May the sadness of her your loss be softened by the happy memories you hold of your mom and grandmother.
With Love,
Melissa and Family
Graves Family
We cannot imagine the pain and heartache you’re feeling. Please accept our deepest condolences and know that God loves you and can restore your spirits, give you peace, and strengthen you. We are sending healing prayers and comforting hugs.
Lisa Wrst
Dearest Beloved Family,
Just want to tell you how loved you all are. I enjoyed the gracious spirit of your beautiful Mother and think of you all with great warmth and affection.
Kaisha Brown
I can’t express what a joy it was to be a friend/colleague of Cornelia’s. We stayed connected through Facebook..last speaking with her by phone about two years ago. Her warm heart, her laugh, her giggle will be sorely missed. She was a great ‘big sister ‘ and humble as well. Blessings and love to her family,her children whom she frequently and affectionately spoke of. Love you much, Cornelia…rest well.❤️👑
Sherrie Nalty
Dear Dr. Christina and the family of Ms. Cornelia,
This memoir is a truly beautiful tribute to your beloved Queen. Thank you for sharing it with us.
We send you our heartfelt love, prayers, and hugs. May you find strength in the scripture passage from Revelation 21:4.
Wishing you peace and grace.
Pastor Patrick & Lady Sherrie Nalty
Monique Brinkman-Hill
My heart goes out to your Family. Thank you for sharing such a beautiful tribute with us, Cornelia was truly a very special person. Keeping each of you in my thoughts and prayers and wishing you moments of peace and comfort as you remember your beloved Mom and GrandMa.
The Closson Family
Sending my deepest condolences to the family. Mrs. Coverdale was a beautiful person.
Catrice
Geoffrey & Family,
“Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.”
Matthew 5:4
Praying for your peace as you lean on the everlasting arms of Jesus Christ in navigating the loss of your beloved mother, Cornelia.
Love & Prayers,
Catrice