Jerry Dean Cornett

Jerry Dean Cornett, a cherished member of the community and a proud United States Army veteran, passed away peacefully on June 10, 2026, in Elizabethton, Tennessee. Born on March 31, 1949, at home in Trade, Tennessee, Jerry’s life was marked by dedication, warmth, and a steadfast love for family and country.

Jerry served honorably as a Specialist 4 in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, where he was awarded the Purple Heart in recognition of his sacrifice and valor. His military service was a defining element of his identity, and he often found comfort and camaraderie in sharing stories about his experiences. A man of quiet strength, Jerry was also laid back, enjoying the simpler pleasures of life such as fishing and tending to his garden—where he was renowned for cultivating some of the prettiest tomatoes and beans anyone had ever seen. Jerry enjoyed traveling- for him the transition was effortless as he could be in Mountain City one minute and halfway to Pigeon Forge the next. His love for flowers and gospel music further reflected his gentle spirit and enduring faith.

He was a devoted member of the Centerview Church of Christ, where his presence was a blessing to many.

Jerry is survived by his sisters, Virginia Trivette and Mary Trivette; brothers Dallas Cornett and wife Mamie; Joe Cornett and wife Kerwin; Lloyd Cornett; Mike Cornett and Kitty; and Randy Cornett. He also leaves behind treasured grandchildren: Harleah Eastridge and her husband Zach, Kelsey Cornett, Devin Cornett and his wife Megan, and Desirae Cornett, along with a beloved great-granddaughter, Sophia Cornett, who was the apple of his eye; great grandson, Radley Eastridge; special nephew, Daryl Cornett, as well as many other nephews and nieces; special friends, Steve Reece, Johnny Miller, Lane Miller, Gale McGlamery, and Bill Reedy, who will all deeply miss his presence in their lives.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Luther Hill Cornett and Wanda Pauline Eggers Cornett; two sons, Richard Dean Cornett and Jason Richard Cornett; his brother, Sam Cornett; sister-in-law, Wanda Cornett; brother-in-law, John Trivette and brother-in-law, Jimmy Trivette and several nephews.

A funeral service for Jerry will be conducted on Saturday, June 13, 2026 at 2:00 pm at Hux & Lipford Funeral Home. The family will receive friends from 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm prior to the funeral service. A graveside service will immediately follow in Sunset Memorial Park.

Military honors will be accorded by the Johnson County Honor Guard. 

Pallbearers will be Devin Cornett, Travis Cornett, Brandon Cornett, Charlie Cornett, Jeff Hodges, Malachi Myers, Dusty McGlamery and Gale McGlamery. 

Jerry's legacy is one of profound loyalty, gentle kindness, and enduring faith. He will be remembered for his contributions as a devoted soldier, nurturing gardener, a loving brother, grandfather and friend, leaving behind a quiet yet indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew him.

Online condolences and memories may be sent to the family at www.huxlipfordfh.com.

Hux & Lipford Funeral Home 300 W. Main St. Mountain City, Tennessee is honored to serve the family of Jerry Cornett.