Joyce Ann Roper Cornett, 80
Joyce Ann (Roper) Cornett, age 80, of Shelbyville, formerly of Louisville and Crestwood, passed away peacefully with family by her side, on Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026. She was born to Sarah Frances (Vance) Roper and Carl D Roper on Feb. 13, 1945. At the time of her birth, her father was overseas during WWII.
She married the love of her life, Donnie, in 1961. Together they raised four daughters.
Joyce attended Eastern High School and went on to fulfill her lifelong dream of becoming a registered nurse. She graduated from the Kentucky Baptist Hospital School of Nursing in 1981. She worked for Baptist Hospital East, the North Central District Home Health and the Oldham County Health Department. She retired after 27 years in the profession.
Joyce was a member of Highland Baptist Church in Shelbyville, Shelby County Homemakers, Kentucky Cover Lovers Quilt Guild and Sewing with Linda. Her love for quilting was an extension of her caring heart. She leaves behind quilts that will continue to wrap her family in love.
She was a sister member in P.E.O. (represents as Philanthropic Educational Organization), which is an international women's organization dedicated to providing educational opportunities for female students world-wide through scholarships, grants and loans.
She was preceded in death by her parents. She leaves behind her husband of 64 years, Donald (Donnie) Cornett; daughters, Rebecca Meadors (Joe) and Sarah Lynn Cornett (Kevin Haag) of Louisville, Allison Cornett (Reid Stone) of New Albany, Ind. and Amy Cornett-Cox (JV) of Darlington, Ind.; six grandchildren, Amanda Nichols, Meghan Greenwell (James), Justin Greenwood, Jordan Greenwood, Kendall Gregory (Will), Cade Cox and Joe Meadors IV; eight great-grandchildren, Hallie, Joleigh, Kaden, Jase, Kallen, Thayer, Max and Elizabeth; two fur babies, Tucker and Lil' Bit; her sister, Carla Roper; niece, Emily Winn (Rob); and multiple extended family members and friends.
Joyce was described as a good friend, a precious and kind soul whose life reflected God's love. A devoted Christian whose gentle spirit touched every life she met. She gave more than she ever asked for in return. Kindness was her superpower and the heart of her family.
Her loss will be felt by many, especially her family.
Visitation will be held Monday, Feb. 9 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Highland Baptist Church in Shelbyville. Funeral services celebrating her life and faith will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 10 at 12 p.m. (noon) at Highland Baptist Church in Shelbyville. Joyce will be laid to rest at Resthaven Memorial Gardens in Louisville. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until time of service.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to P.E.O. International P.E.O. Chapter AL c/o Marie Ridgeway 26 Timberwood Dr.
Shelbyville, KY 40067 in memory of Joyce Cornett, St. Judes or Highland Baptist Church.
Published by The Sentinel-News from Feb. 6 to Feb. 16, 2026.