Deacon Cornell James Broadwater, 83, of Duquesne, was born in Edgefield, South Carolina on December 5, 1940 to the late Woodrow Broadwater and Mae Bell Cunningham-Broadwater.

Affectionately known as “CRACK” throughout his life, Cornell was a 1959 graduate of Duquesne High School where he was a fantastic football player. He later joined the Duquesne Steel Mill working in the BOF Department, where he later retired.

Cornell was baptized at a young age in Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church under the pastorate of Rev. Torrey and remained a lifelong member. He was ordained as Deacon, under the leadership of Pastor Archie D. Perrin Jr. on February 24, 1991, and was still serving as Deacon at Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church. Deacon Cornell was also a current member of the Laymen’s League of the Allegheny Union Baptist Association and served as Secretary, Treasurer, Vice President and President of the Lower Monongahela Laymen’s League.  His service to the church and community continued as he was a former Trustee and Chairman of the Trustee’s Board, a former member of the Ushers Board as well as former President, a former member of the Willing Workers Club, Male Chorus and Sunday School teacher. In the community, he was former President of the Duquesne/ West Mifflin NAACP, former member of the Educational Steering Committee for the Duquesne City School and worked with the Duquesne West Mifflin Boys and Girls Club. He was a member of the Homestead Community Bowling League. First Chairman of the Duquesne Community Day Committee.

Cornell leaves to cherish his loving wife Ernestine Broadwater of 15 years; children, Tammy Proctor (John), Cornell Broadwater Jr., Angela and Lee Lee Garrett; (4) grandchildren, D’mond & Dorian Broadwater, Amiyah & Shanesha Garrett; Siblings (7 sisters), Willa Barnes, Christine Hagans (deceased), Effie Winkfield, Geneva Washington, Betty Broadwater, Rasheedah Akbar and Elaine Washington; Godchildren Tony Simmons, Kenny & Jennae Bryant; Host of Nieces, Nephews and loving friends.