
Carol Ann Singleton Cornett, 79, passed away on August 30, 2026. Born on October 8, 1946, Carol was born and raised in Gainesville, GA, the only child and the daughter of a policeman. She attended Gainesville High School and later North Georgia Military College, where she met Terry. She earned a degree in Biology, and her passion for science—and for learning—remained a steady thread throughout her life. After graduating, Carol and Terry were married, and together they welcomed one child, Chriseda. Carol later made her home in Marietta, Georgia.
Carol brought a bright spirit to the lives around her—lively in conversation, quick with humor, and generous in the everyday ways that matter most. Her curiosity was genuine and lasting, expressed in a love of reading, history, science, museums, and the quiet satisfaction of crossword puzzles. She also enjoyed crafting, especially crochet, and for a brief time owned a craft store in Macon called “The Ladybug,” a fitting reflection of one of her favorite things, as she also enjoyed collecting ladybugs.
Carol’s sense of adventure carried her far beyond home. She loved to travel, with journeys that included Sedona, AZ; Lake Tahoe; Williamsburg, VA; the Poconos, NY; the Grand Canyon; New Orleans; Austria; Venice; Paris; and London. Whether close to home or across the ocean, she embraced the world with an open mind and a spirited appreciation for what each place could teach and offer.
A devoted homemaker, Carol took deep pride in her home and in supporting her family. She was a good cook and was very involved in her daughter’s life, known especially as a fiercely protective mother whose care was steady and unwavering. She also developed lasting friendships through her involvement with the PTA, including service on the state board of PTA—work that reflected her commitment to children, families, and community.
Carol was also a member of the WWOW, Wicked Women on Wednesday, a group that was formed out of involvement in the PTA that combined friendship with purpose and a shared willingness to get into good-hearted trouble. Through WWOW, she helped support organizations such as Toys for Tots, volunteered at Cobb General Hospital, supported MUST Ministries, and gave her time and energy to others in ways both practical and heartfelt.
Carol was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Terry Lee Cornett; and her parents, George Alton Singleton and Vivian Clark Singleton. She is survived by her daughter, Chriseda Howard; her family of her heart, Susan and Rodney Matthews, Angela and James Kelley, Lacey Kelley, Skyler Heath, Melissa Matthews, and Lynda Fearon; her niece, Julie Highfield; many other surviving nieces and nephews; and her WWOW sisters.
The family extends special thanks to Wellstar Community Hospice and Sally Smith, Carol’s personal caregiver, for the love and care provided to Carol.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wounded Warrior, Tunnel to Towers, or to Shriner's support a local children's organization.
Please share memories or condolences at www.nationalcremation.com.
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