Raymond Cornett

Raymond "Ray" Preston Cornett passed away from an unexpected heart attack on May 27, 2026, at his home in Cleburne, Texas. Ray left behind a legacy of warmth, laughter and unwavering devotion to those he loved.

Ray was born in Dallas, Texas, on July 31, 1942, and lived a life strongly rooted in family, God, friends, hard work and genuine kindness to every person he met. He worked for forty-six years as a meat cutter for Safeway, which was an example of his dependability and strong work ethic. Ray's greatest joy was spending time with his family and friends. Known for his quick wit and outgoing personality, Ray never met a stranger. He loved people, lending a helping hand, making jokes, good-natured teasing, and making people laugh. He always left people smiling and made the world a better place. Ray also loved working outdoors, tending to his yard and helping in his neighbors' yards. These simple pleasures brought him much peace and joy.

Ray's home was filled with love and laughter, and it now holds cherished memories that reflect the man who lived there. Ray is lovingly survived by his wife of sixty-one years, Betty Hayes-Cornett, whose love and companionship were the foundations of his life. Ray is also survived by his two daughters, Brenda Cornett-Johnson and her husband, James Johnson of Burleson, and Tricia Cornett-Skiles of Grandview. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren, Emily and Nick Tarver, Jared and Gabby Johnson, Dylan and Bailey Bly, and Hayden Johnson, all of whom were blessed to have known the devotion and humor that defined their beloved "Grandpa". Ray also left behind a great-grandson, Nate Bly, who added more joy and laughter to his life. Ray is further survived by his sister, Kathy Cornett-Petroff and her husband, Steve Petroff, of California, his sister-in-law, Terri Cornett of Alba, Texas, and his nephew, Troy Cornett, of Florida. Ray was preceded in death by his father, Chester Ralph Cornett, his mother, Clara Mae Cornett, his step-mother, Cathy Cornett, his sister, Patricia Cornett, his brother, Terry Cornett, and his son-in-law, Alan Ray Skiles.

Ray was a lifelong fan of Elvis Presley. He proudly maintained a room in his home dedicated to Elvis memorabilia collected over the years. He loved Elvis's music and occasionally enjoyed dressing up as "The King" himself, much to the amusement of family and friends. When relatives came to stay overnight, Ray would jokingly offer them accommodations in the "Elvis room" and tease that he was going to charge them rent. His playful sense of humor and love of sharing a laugh made these moments some of the many memories his family will cherish.

Ray will be remembered for his loving and generous heart, quick wit, strong work-ethic and his unwavering devotion and love for his family. Ray's spirit will live on in the countless lives he touched and the memories shared by those who knew and loved him. Ray will be deeply missed and forever cherished!