William H. Cornette

William H. Cornette, 96, of Beaver, Ohio, passed away early on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, with his daughters by his side. His final days were spent sharing memories with his children, grandchildren, family members, and special friends, as well as his personal caregivers who became like family.
William was born on January 9, 1929, in Martin County, Kentucky, to Albert and Edna (Bell Moore) Cornette. He was the sixth of eight children.
William's childhood was spent in both Kentucky and Ohio. On his nineteenth birthday, he joined the army during which time he was stationed in Korea as a gunner in the Infantry and later as a supply sergeant. He also spent time in Colorado, Alaska, and Japan during his time in the Army. Honors included The Korean Service Medal, with one Bronze Star; The United Nations Service Medal; and The Combat Infantry Badge.
William met Gladys Olive Pence and the two were married on July 17, 1953. Together they had four children and settled in the Beaver area where they raised their family. After moving to the family homeplace in 1969, he resided there to live out the remainder of his life in the place he loved while watching the abundant wildlife.
Known as Bill or "Slim" for much of his life due to his being tall and thin, William worked as a heavy equipment operator for several construction companies, finding his home with John R. Jurgensen Company and became a member of Operating Engineers Local 18.
He is described by his many friends and family as a friendly, caring, calm man who was always there to help others. He was always excited to share stories with everyone, even in his final days.
William is survived by his daughters, Brenda Dotson, and Barbara Hoffman; Nine grandchildren, Jeremy (Nita) Dotson, Stephanie (Joe) Kelly, Allison (Will) Henderson, Alexander (Megan) Hoffman, Madison C. Hoffman, Lauren (H.G.) Biggs, Zachariah Cornette, Harold Helwig, and William Helwig; and numerous great grandchildren. His wife, Gladys Cornette; Son, William "Billy" E. Cornette; and Daughter Freda M. Helwig preceded him in death, as did his parents, and all seven of his siblings.
Funeral services will be held 1:00 p.m., Monday, November 10, 2025, at Boyer Funeral Home, Waverly, Ohio with Chaplain Samuel Lore officiating. Burial will follow at Gravel Hill Cemetery, Union Township, Beaver, Ohio.
The family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. until the beginning of the service on Monday at the funeral home.
Farewell to a beautiful soul who has left the world infinitely better through a life of service to his country, love of his family, numerous friends, and a true goodness as a human being.