The Australian actress passed away surrounded by her family and friends after a battle with cancer.
Cornelia had a number of television roles, including a part in The Young Doctors, Son and Daughters and Kingswood Country.
She also hosted the Australian version of game show The Weakest Link between 2001 and 2002.
However, she was most famous for her for portrayal of Morag Bellingham in the popular Seven soap Home and Away, which she first appeared on in 1988.
Since the her death was announced tributes have come flooding in from the people who knew her best.
Home and Away actor Ray Meagher, who played her onscreen brother, said: “Cornie was an incredibly loved and valued member of our cast over many, many years.
“We had a moment of silence for her on set this morning and she’ll be sadly missed by both cast and crew.”
A Seven spokesperson said: “Cornelia Frances was a unique person, her on screen presence inspired a generation of actors.
“This gift was coupled with an ability to bring a sense of dignity and presence into each room she entered.
“Her energy and character will be missed.”
Meanwhile, her son Lawrence shared a picture of his mother lying peacefully in bed alongside a heartfelt message.
He wrote on Instagram: “A very personal photo of my mum during one of her resting moments, she is so peaceful, soft and serene.
“I truly love this woman.”
In 2017, Cornelia was diagnosed with bladder cancer and doctors later told her the cancer had spread to her hip and spine.
Back in January Cornelia spoke to The Sunday Telegraph about her illness and hopes of returning to acting.
“I swear I have had a hex placed on me for the past 12 months,” she said.
“I discovered I had bladder cancer. This then spread to my hip bone which fractured.”
She continued: “And then I almost died from loss of blood due to an ulcer in my throat. Despite all this, I am still here, as the old song goes.”
Revealing her wish to reprise her role as Ray ‘Alf’ Meagher’s evil sister Morag in Home and Away, she added: “I would dearly love to go back to Summer Bay but haven’t heard anything as yet.”
Cornelia is survived by her son Lawrence Eastland.
Express.co.uk has contacted a representative for Cornelia Frances.
