John Steven Cornett

John Steven Cornett, age 52, passed from this life on February 11, 2026 in Maryville, Tennessee. Known affectionately to many as "John John" or simply "The Mayor," John's presence was as big as his heart.

Born on August 8, 1973 in Whitesburg, Kentucky, to the late Johnnie B. and Peggy Cornett, Johns grew up in the Upper Bottom Section of Whitesburg. It was there he first earned his nickname, "The Mayor," for his natural ability to connect with everyone he met. While in high school, John developed a lift long love for music, spending time at the local radio station where he eventually hosted his own radio program with friends at the Appalshop.

After graduating from Whitesburg High School, John answered the call to service and entered the United States Navy. Following his honorable discharge he pursed a career in funeral science. In a poignant turn of events, the first person he took care of as a licensed funeral director was his own father, a responsibility he carried with immense pride and honor.

His commitment to his home continued when he became the Letcher County Coroner. While he was proud to serve his community in such a vital role, the weight of the position was something he felt deeply, often remarking, " You couldn't unsee the things you saw."

In search of a new chapter, John moved to Tennessee. His career with Denso Manufacturing even took him across the globe to Japan. Most recently, he was employed by Arconic 
Aluminum Company, where he was a proud member of the United Steel Worker's Union. A lifelong member of the American Legion, this honor was bestowed upon him by his father, who was the Commander of the Douglas Day Post at the time.

John met and married Andrea Ison and together they had two sons. There was nothing in this world that gave him more unwavering pride than "his boys," John Steven and Jackson Wayne. Whether he was at work or at home, John never forgot where he came from. As an avid University of Kentucky fan, he remained a devoted member of the Big Blue Nation; there was never any doubt that his blood ran blue.

John will remembered for his service, his stories, and the immense love he held for his sons and his Kentucky Heritage. 

John was preceded in death by his parents, Johnnie B. Cornett and Peggy Cornett Sexton. One nephew, Jacob Bryant Hensley.

He is survived by two children, John Steven Cornett II of Kingscreek and Jackson Wayne Cornett (Halle) of Georgetown and their mother Andrea King of Linefork. One sister: Valerie Cornett Hensley and husband Brian of Maryville, Tennessee. One niece: Milinda Brianne Hensley and one nephew Alexander Jessee Hensley both of Maryville, Tennessee. One bonus sister Ashley Martin of Colson. Two aunts Sue Holbrook of Whitesburg and Mary Foley (Buddy) of Versailles. 2 cousins Bubba Foley of Lexington and Beth Treat of Jeffersonville, Indiana.

Memorial Service: 3:00 O'clock P.M. Wednesday, February 18, 2026 at the Letcher Funeral Home Chapel with Jack Howard officiating.