William Corns Obituary
William “Bill” Henry Corns, 97, of McDermott, passed away early on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at SOMC Hospice. He was born June 15, 1928, in New Boston, a son of the late Sina S. Hackworth Bosley and William Bartley Corns.
A 1946 graduate of Portsmouth High School, Bill served three years in the U.S. Navy following graduation. He was primarily stationed in Panama and he was awarded the World War II Victory Medal for his service. He received a Bachelor of Education from Ohio University, but opted for a different career by becoming a member of the first hiring class of electricians at the Goodyear Atomic Enrichment Plant in 1954. He retired as an electrical power operator in 1990.
For most of his life, he could be found tinkering with some kind of project, whether it be building a playhouse for his daughters or a swing set for his grandchildren. There was nothing broken that he didn’t believe he could fix. In retirement, he could be found on one of his mowers driving around his property, fishing, or just being outside as much as possible. He will be remembered as a loving Husband, Father, and not just a Hoho, but a Great-Hoho.
Bill is survived by his three daughters, Susan Corns of Columbus, April (Jeff) Kirkendall of South Webster, and Lana Corns of Lucasville; two grandchildren, Lannette (Jerry) Perdue and Michael William Kirkendall; two great-grandsons, William and Harrison Perdue; and a nephew, Charlie (Phyllis) Benner of Englewood.
Bill was preceded in death by his wife, Edith Ann Amick Corns, on November 18, 2012, after spending 60 years together, 58 of those in marriage. He was also preceded by his stepfather, Myron Bosley; and siblings, Kenneth Corns, Evelyn Spence, and Alberta “Bertie” Benner.
By his own wishes, the family will move forward with no services. He often joked when reading the paper that he had checked the obituaries and still couldn’t find his name – but he would keep looking. As a last gift to him – Dad/Hoho, you made the paper!
In lieu of flowers, the family asks you to celebrate him by taking your loved ones out to eat at your local Bob Evans, where for many years he was a three mornings a week staple, or enjoy a meal at Fork and Finger – leave room for the banana pudding.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Ralph F. Scott Funeral Home in Portsmouth, where friends can leave a special memory of Bill on their website, RalphFScott.com.
