Shirley Cornett Barnes was born March 4, 1936, in Gordon, Kentucky to parents Chester and Mary Cornett. She was one of eight siblings. She passed away peacefully in her home on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at the age of 90.
She is survived by her devoted husband Ralph; her son, John Ormsby (Denise); granddaughter, Mikayla; her brother, Jerry; and sister, Carolyn.
She and John moved to Huntsville in 1970. She married Ralph Barnes on February 1st, 1983. She earned a degree in Art Therapy from University of Albuquerque in 1993.
Shirley was incredibly talented in many ways. She was a wonderful artist who enjoyed painting, mostly abstracts. She had a talent for creating a dinner that would leave the most discerning chef in awe. Not only was the food exquisite – the table decorations and display of the food were also a work of art. She painted with her granddaughter, teaching her about color and technique, and later inspiring her career in the arts. She leaves a hole in the lives of her family and friends.
Visitation will be from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. Saturday, July 18, 2026, at Laughlin Service Funeral Home. The funeral service will follow at 3:00 p.m..
