Cornelia A. (McNair) Mallory

Cornelia "Connie" Ann Mallory, beloved daughter, sister, mother, wife, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully in Atlanta, Georgia, at Jonesboro Nursing Home. She was born in Dayton, Ohio, July 7, 1952, where her remarkable journey began.

Connie attended and was baptized at an early age at Corinthian Baptist Church. She graduated from Paul Laurence Dunbar High School in 1970, where she was one of a few featured twirlers who twirled with fire. She was a debutante and was crowned Miss. Debutante at the 1970 Delta Sigma Theta Debutante Ball. When she wasn’t twirling, she was playing softball at Burkham Park. She loved the game and was exceptionally good at it. She attended Wright State University seeking a degree in Business. After giving birth to her only child, LaTashia, she put all her attention into raising a beautiful and smart daughter. Connie was known for her wit, her love of cooking, fashion, and her gift for bringing people together. Her home was often filled with laughter, good food, and the joy of family and friends.

Those that knew Connie always said she looked and dressed like a model. She had her own style, that no one could imitate; her signature items were hats and gloves. In the late 70’s- early 80’s, she pursued a modeling career in California where she did well. She was approached by a friend to participate in an African Fashion Show at the then, Black Cultural Festival at Island Park. This passion inspired her to help raise money for her family reunion. She pulled together family and friends, created fun and exciting scenes, and spoke with a golden voice that captured audiences. The event was such a success that BOOM McNair and Company Models, Inc. was born! Connie shared a special bond with each one of the models, which is why they all respected and loved her. She had a way of pulling the best out of you, even when you didn’t believe you had it in you. Her outstanding voice influenced her to attend the International School of Broadcasting and was later known as “The Voice” on W-DAO radio station in Dayton, Ohio.

On July 10, 1993, Connie married the love of her life, Wilson E “Gino”. Mallory, in Dayton, Ohio. The very next day, they began a new chapter together in Atlanta, Georgia. Connie and Gino loved family, and they loved to travel. Their bond was one of deep love and partnership until his passing in 2023.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Wilson E. Mallory, and her beloved grandson, William Robinson IV, her parents Gloria and Walter McNair, sister-in-law Jackland “Jackie” McNair, nephew Gregory McNair II, aunt Patricia McNair, and biological father Lindsey Evans.

The memory of Cornelia (Connie) lives on through her devoted daughter, LaTashia Robinson; son-in-law, Will Robinson III; and her cherished granddaughter, Skylar Robinson; Brother Gregory “Greg” McNair, Sister Lawyanna “Shelly” (Lawrence) Marshall and Brother Walter “Terry” (Yvette) McNair. Nieces, Tonya McNair, Tracy McNair and Ta’Sheena (Greg) Walker, and Terrica McNair. Cousins, Agnes George, Sheila (Hershal) Jones, Special Cousin/Brother Michael (Rachel) Sims, and Special Niece Tara Henderson and a host of other relatives and friends who will miss her dearly.

Her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Celebration of Life 1 pm Monday, October 13, 2025 at House of Wheat Funeral Home, 2107 N. Gettysburg Ave., Dayton, OH. Calling hour 12 pm- 1 pm at which time family will receive friends.

Livestream Link: http://www.facebook.com/Stream-All-Services-102620271622310/

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