VA HR266

James Ernest Cornett of Big Stone Gap died on February 9, 2026, after a career spanning banking, real estate, and small business ownership in Southwest Virginia

Served 30 years in the banking industry with First National Exchange Bank (later Dominion Bank) and 20 years in real estate with Mountain Empire Realty and Lonesome Pine Realty

Owned Trail Antiques for 40 years and co-owned Sue's Hallmark Shop in downtown Big Stone Gap for 25 years with his wife Susan

Served in the United States Army and provided leadership to the Wise County Chamber of Commerce, Wise County Industrial Development Authority, and Mountain Empire Community College Foundation

Resolution directs the Clerk of the House of Delegates to present a copy to his family as an expression of respect for his memory