Patrick Cornett's Obituary
Patrick Kelley Cornett, age 77, of Centerville, passed away Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at the VA Central Iowa Health Care Center in Des Moines.
Patrick was born on May 17, 1948, in Centerville, Iowa, the son of Kelley Clayton Cornett and Dessama Rose (Shriver) Cornett. A lifelong resident of the area, he graduated from Centerville High School and soon after answered a higher calling-serving his country in the United States Army. He carried the discipline, integrity, and quiet strength he learned in the Army with him long after his honorable discharge. Being a veteran was not simply a chapter in Patrick's life; it was a badge of honor he wore with deep pride.
On December 7, 1974, Patrick was united in marriage to Connie Byte. Together they built a life grounded in love, dedication, and steady devotion. Their union was blessed with a daughter, Missy, and a son, Jay.
Patrick dedicated his professional life to serving and protecting others. As both a paramedic in Chariton and a police officer in Centerville, he stood on the front lines of his community and surrounding communities- offering help in moments of crisis, calm in times of chaos, and compassion when it was needed most. Whether responding to an emergency call or patrolling familiar streets, he approached his work with courage, fairness, and a servant's heart.
Outside of his uniform, Patrick found peace in life's simple pleasures. He enjoyed tending to his garden, watching birds flit through the yard, and spending quiet hours with a good book or a challenging crossword puzzle. He cherished time spent hunting and fishing, appreciating the stillness of nature and the patience those pursuits required. In the evenings, he could often be found watching classic westerns or programs about history and wildlife-always eager to learn, always curious about the world around him.
Patrick will be remembered for his steady presence, his sense of duty, and his unwavering commitment to his family, his community, and his country. A proud veteran, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and a trusted public servant, he leaves behind a legacy of honor and service that will not be forgotten. His life was one of quiet heroism-lived not for recognition, but for purpose.
Those left to honor Patrick's memory are his wife of 51 years, Connie Cornett; his daughter, Missy "Cornett" Gilman (Mike Adams); his grandchildren, Cassie (Brian Jr.) Ulrich and Kellee (Stephan) Sims; his great grandchildren, Brian Ulrich III and Scarlett Sims; his brother, Anthony Cornett; his sister, Micheal Tosone; as well as several extended family members and friends.
Patrick was preceded in death by his parents, Kelly and Rose Cornett; his son, Jay Cornett; and a nephew, Kelly Wayne Robinson.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00AM, Saturday, February 21, 2026 at Thomas Funeral Home in Centerville. Burial will follow the service at Oakland Cemetery in Centerville. Visitation will take place Saturday, February 21, 2026 at Thomas Funeral Home in Centerville with the family greeting friends from 9:00-11:00AM. Memorials have been established to the Humble Heroes Foundation (For Appanoose County in the memo of checks), and may be mailed to Thomas Funeral Home, ATTN: Cornett Family, 501 North 18th Street, Centerville, Iowa 52544. Condolences may be shared online at https://www.thomasfh.com or https://www.facebook.com/thomasfuneralhome .
To view the livestream of Patrick's services, please click the link below or visit: https://my.gather.app/remember/patrick-cornett
What’s your fondest memory of Patrick?
What’s a lesson you learned from Patrick?
Share a story where Patrick's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Patrick you’ll never forget.
How did Patrick make you smile?