James Cornette

James H. Cornette, 79, of LaPlata, MD passed away on October 26, 2020 at the Charles County Hospice House.

Born on August 3, 1941 in Creston, NC to the late Holton B. Cornette and Ruby K. Cornette, he is also preceded in death by his brother, Horace Cornette; and sisters, Melba Lewis and Betty Johnson.  James is survived by his brothers, Dale Cornette and Frank Cornette; sisters, Amanda Edwards and Millie Head; son, Chris Cornette (Cheryl); and grandchildren, Kaitlyn and Kelsey Cornette.

James graduated from LaPlata High School in 1959.  He received his Associate’s Degree from Charles Co. Junior College and Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees from Appalachian State University.  James worked for the Charles Co. Board of Education for 49 years where he offered wise counsel, mentorship and friendship to generations of faculty and students.  He began his career as a Social Studies Teacher for Lackey High School and LaPlata High School, went on to become Vice Principal of Lackey High School as well as Principal of General Smallwood Middle School, Lackey High School and McDonough High School.  During his career he was the recipient of many professional honors including the Washington Post Distinguished Educational Leadership Award in 1989, SMAC Basketball Coach of the Year in 1970 and SMAC Baseball Coach of the Year in 1971 and 1972. He also had many other personal achievements in the Charles – St. Mary’s Baseball League. He hit the first homerun over the center field fence at Glasva, he led the League in doubles in 1965 and 1967. He was selected player of the week 8 times, selected to the All Star Team 7 times, and selected Manager of the Year in 1974. He won the first Flight Club Championship at Wicomico Shores Yacht & Country Club in 1980. James was also involved in the local community where he coached for Charles Co. Little League, was a manager for Charles and St. Mary’s Co. Baseball Leagues and was a Summer Playground Director for Charles Co. Parks & Recreation.  He also served as Director for Neighborhood Youth Corps, Volunteer for the Charles Co. Special Olympics and participated in fund raising activities for United Way of Charles Co.  An avid National’s fan, James loved baseball and enjoyed playing golf in his spare time.  He will be missed by the many lives he touched.

Due to Covid-19, services will be held at a later date.  Online condolences to the family may be shared at arehartechols.com.

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