James Cornett Obituary
August 11, 1949 - January 27, 2026
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of James Larry Cornett, 76, on Tuesday, 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 High School in 1967, he went on to earn a degree in Industrial Management at the University of Tennessee - 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 Reserve having received an Honorable Discharge. After which, he 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 the 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
Along with many nieces and nephews
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.
Cremation Services Direct (843-651-1194) of Myrtle Beach is assisting the family with arrangements.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
1 Entry
Mike Dake
February 5, 2026
This is Mike Dake. I have known Larry ever since Sept. 1967 when we both lived on the 5th floor of Carrick Hall at UT. We quickly became good friends and remained so. Larry and I along with other friends had many good times and adventures at UT. We always stayed in touch and got together whenever we could. I will miss Larry much. He was a great guy and a lifelong good friend.
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