Willette NeSmith Coburn, 80, passed away peacefully at her home in Huntsville, Alabama on Tuesday, October 21, 2025.
Born and raised in Arab, Alabama, Willette graduated from Arab High School. She married Kenneth W. Coburn on August 1, 1970, and they shared 45 years of marriage until his passing in February 2016.
Willette spent her career as a teletype operator in the financial services industry, with her favorite years at Legg Mason. She was known for her quick wit, love of reading, and enjoyment of bird watching with a cup of coffee in hand.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Max (and his wife, Ann), Ray, and Rex NeSmith; nephews, Russell and Kevin NeSmith; granddaughter, Avery Austin; grandson, Michael Coburn; and her husband, Kenneth W. Coburn.
Willette is survived by her stepchildren, Donald L. Coburn (Karen) of Huntsville, Daniel R. Coburn (Joy) of Middleburg, Florida, and Susan Coburn Thomas (Dale) of Huntsville. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Christa Austin of Moncks Corner, South Carolina, Dr. Patricia Whooten (Phillip) of Houston, Texas, Dr. Ashley Thomas (Marius) of Louisville, Kentucky, and Michael Smith of Huntsville. Her great-grandchildren include Eli Austin of Moncks Corner, South Carolina and Siena, Philip, Jacob and Mary Whooten of Austin, Texas.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to Hospice of North Alabama and Huntsville Home Care for their compassionate support.
Family and friends are invited to gather at Willette’s home on Friday, October 24, 2025, from 2 to 4 p.m. for a celebration of her life.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or the Land Trust of North Alabama.
