Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
James Cornett Obituary
August 11, 1949 -
January 27, 2026
With heavy hearts, we share the passing of James Larry Cornett, 76, on January 27, 2026, at his home surrounded by his loving family.
He was born in Newport, TN, son of the late J.I. Cornett and Aurine Rollins Cornett.
After graduating from Happy Valley HS in 1967, he earned a degree from UT Knoxville, where he also served proudly in the ROTC Color Guard - carrying the American Flag at UT Football games.
He earned the rank Captain in the United States Army and spent several years working alongside his father at J.I. Cornett Construction Company.
Larry married the love of his life, Maureen Hawkins Cornett, and together they built a large loving family that brought him endless pride and happiness. Shortly after marrying, they relocated to Asheville, NC where he founded Cornett Air-Cooled Engines and later, Cornett Storage. In recent years they retired to Murrells Inlet, SC.
He was a devoted husband to Maureen for 43 years, a testament to their love and lifelong partnership. Together, they shared a life filled with travel, concerts, cheering for The VOLS, Disney World vacations and summer family beach trips.
He enjoyed golfing and mountain biking in the mountains of NC. He also enjoyed tinkering with Apple products and technology.
He was known for his generous spirit, quick wit, and wonderfully quirky sense of humor.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his son, James Aaron Cornett, granddaughter, Olivia Erin Huber and grandson, Henry Arthur Pedroza.
He is survived by his loving wife, Maureen Hawkins Cornett.
Children: Shelley Huber, Reagan Cornett, Hannah Cornett (Tylor), Andrew Larry Cornett, Hope Cornett (Cody), Annie (Greg) Bohanon, Patricia (Nathan) Price, Jacob Isaac Cornett (Haylee), Aubrey (Will) Taylor, and Amity Pedroza
Grandchildren: Grace, Josh, Chloe, Landon, Ayden, Ryder, Oaklynn, Maverick, Abel, Bristol, and Gabriel James; Sisters: Patricia (Keith) Hart and Teresa Cornett; Brother: Jaye (Debbie) Cornett. Many precious nieces, nieces and friends also survive.
To honor Larry's wishes, no funeral service will be held. His family invites you to celebrate his memory in your own way - by sharing a story, turning up a favorite song, or cheering for The VOLS just a little louder than usual.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The American Heart Association.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Cornett
6 Entries
Judie Kyte kelly
February 8, 2026
Sorry about your loss I went to school with him very nice guy also know his sister and dad praying for all.
Dickie Renfro
February 6, 2026
Sorry to hear about Larry passing. We were real good friends in high school and college. We made several beach trips together to Myrtle Beach. So sorry for you loss.
Dave Jordan Jr
February 4, 2026
I met Larry when we lived in the same Dorm at The University of Tennessee. Later we were roommates in an off campus Apartment and shared so many good memories. We were big UT football fans and shared interest in cars and music. Larry had a 1966 GTO and later a Porsche 911 Turbo Targa in Big Orange color. We bought every Beatles and Rolling Stones Album when they came out. One of our favorite Albums was a comedy group called The Firesign Theatre. We would laugh uncontrollably when one of us would quote a line from the Album Don´t Crush that Dwarf Hand me the Pliers. Since most people had no idea what we were referring to they thought we were both insane which only added to laughter. Those were tears of joy but today I only have tears of sadness for his friends and family. The world has lost some of its kindness with the passing of my friend. Dave Jordan Jr
Tina MK Wilcox
February 4, 2026
I assist Teresa, his sister, here in Tennessee. Although I have never met Larry, Teresa often speaks highly of him, expressing her deep love and affection for her brother.
No words, no matter how tender` can touch what you´re feeling inside.
No one can soften the sorrow deep down where your heartaches reside. Still, we are thinking about you and hoping it helps in some way simply to know that we care about you and share in your sadness today.
John 14:1-3
How you can show support
Follow
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Heather Tillman
February 3, 2026
I met Larry for the first time when my best friend Shelley his daughter brought me to Asheville to meet him. I just remember the sense of calm he brought and his sweet smile. You will be missed and you have left a legacy that my best friend will cherish forever. Love to the family. Heather
Showing 1 - 6 of 6 results
Make a Donation
in James Cornett's name
Please consider a donation as requested by the family.
Memorial Events
for James Cornett
People and places connected with James
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
How to support James's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor James Cornett's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
