Billy Kenneth Cornett

Billy Kenneth Cornett, age 82, of Rockford, Tennessee, passed away peacefully in his home on October 19th, 2022.  Ken was born on April 8th, 1940, in Crossnore, North Carolina, to Glenn William Cornett and Virginia May Aldridge Cornett, both of whom have predeceased him.  Ken is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Wilda Faye Williams Cornett, and his two sons, Bryan Kenneth Cornett (Amy) of Duluth, Georgia, and Bradley Williams Cornett (Wendy) of Springville, Alabama, as well as his four grandchildren: Miranda, Atticus, Joshua, and Kylie Cornett. Ken is also survived by his three siblings, James “Jimmy” Corbett Cornett (Rosa Lee), Glendon Ralph Cornett (Mary Anne), and Phyllis “Susie” Cornett Williams (Larry), as well as numerous nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.   Ken loved his family well and enjoyed spending time with them, sharing with them his passion for history and genealogical research (which, incidentally, the family has found most helpful for writing obituaries).  He spent many happy hours with his brother, Jimmy, and his buddies combing the countryside in search of historic artifacts.  He also served as the historian for Blount County, and he relished sharing fascinating local tales spanning a range of topics from nearby dairies to embattled forts.  In fact, he literally wrote the books on those subjects.  Ken could often be found working outside in his yard or (frequently to his wife’s dismay) at abandoned cemeteries in efforts to clean them up, which often took a toll on family vehicles.  On fall Saturdays, Ken could be found cheering for the Tennessee Volunteers.  The last Tennessee-Alabama football score he heard was certainly a win for Ken. Ken was an active member of Victory Baptist Church, Maryville, Tennessee, for over 60 years.  The family wishes to thank all of the people who have helped care for Ken during these recent months and express appreciation for the many kindnesses shown to him.  He will be missed by all whose lives he touched, and his family cherishes the memories he provided to them with the deepest love and affection.  A service celebrating Ken’s life will be held on Sunday, October 23rd, at 1:30 p.m.at Victory at Pistol Creek Baptist Church (1025 Montvale Road, Maryville), followed by visitation with friends and family until 3:30 p.m.  A private graveside service for the family will take place at Cedar Grove Baptist Church at 4 p.m. Smith Funeral & Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000, www.SmithFuneralandCremation.com