SUE CORNETT

Big Stone Gap, VA- It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Susan Lilly Fletcher Cornett, age 82, of Big Stone Gap, VA, on Sunday, August 31, 2025. She lived an extraordinary life, full of adventure, laughter, and love, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her. She was the beloved former owner of Sue’s Hallmark Shop, a cherished card & gift store, that served the community for over 25 years. 

Born in Narrows, VA on April 12, 1943, Sue was the daughter of Ruth Johnston Fletcher Wheeler and USAF Lt. William Allen Fletcher, Jr. She attended Narrows High School and later Virginia Intermont College and the University of Tennessee. Following a short tenure as a teacher, Sue and Jim settled in Bristol for seven years then moved to Big Stone Gap in 1973. A couple of years later, Sue opened the Hallmark Shop which quickly became a fixture in the downtown Big Stone Gap community. Over the decades, Sue’s became more than just a place to buy cards and gifts. She made it a point to get to know her customers and friends, offering a kind word, a helpful recommendation, and a warm smile. 

Beyond the shop, Sue was a dedicated member of the Big Stone Gap community, volunteering with the Intermont Garden Club and John Fox Jr Museum as well as supporting countless local charities. 

Sue is survived by her husband of 61 years, Jim Cornett; their daughter, Debbie Cornett Wright and her spouse, C F. Wright, III; and their granddaughter, Ariel Cornett and her spouse, Nathaniel Smith. She is also survived by special niece, Patty Feathers; nephews, Bill, Don and Ron Eanes, and their families; and a devoted caregiver, Peggy Lambert. 

She was preceded in death as an infant by her father, Lt. William A. Fletcher, Jr. who perished during active duty in the Pacific Theater during World War II. She was also preceded in death by her mother, Ruth Fletcher Wheeler. 

The family received friends Friday, September 5, 2025 from 12:00-1:30pm at Gilliam Funeral Home, 618 Wood Ave. W., Big Stone Gap, VA. A Celebration of Life service followed at 1:30pm with Lowell “Cotton” Gardner, Jr. ministering.

The graveside service followed at Powell Valley Memorial Gardens, 5650 Powell Valley Road, Big Stone Gap, VA. Family members and friends served as pallbearers.

Gilliam Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the family of Sue Cornett. 

To view the obituary online and offer condolences, visit www.gilliamfuneralhome.com or the funeral home Facebook page.