Doris Marie Cornett (nee Sommer), a long-time resident of Tempe, died Friday, July 14, 2023 at the age of 95.
Born in 1928 in Phoenix, her parents, Harold & Laverne Sommer, moved the family to Ohio in 1931, only to return to Arizona after WW II. After graduating from Tempe Union High School, Doris received her Education degrees (BS in 1962, MA in 1968, and Ed.D in 1974) from Arizona State University.
After several years as a teacher, Doris became the first principal at Carminati Elementary (1971), and then at Fuller Elementary (1977-1984). She retired in 1988 as principal of Connolly Junior High School.
Married to her husband, Bill (also an educator), for 51 years, they raised three children, Koneta, Dan, & Zane.
Doris was active in the community, volunteering with the Tempe Police Department, and managing their Victim Assistance program. Also interested in the history of Tempe, Doris was a member of the Tempe Historical Society, and a supporter of both the Tempe History Museum and Petersen House Museum, a Queen Anne Victorian historic house located on the corner of Priest and Southern in Tempe.
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations to honor Doris be made to the Tempe History Society, to benefit Petersen House Museum. You can make a donation via PayPal (secure link) or by mailing a check to THS / Doris Cornett Fund, 809 E Southern Avenue, Tempe, AZ 85282. Donations may also be made to the East Valley Retired Teachers scholarship fund.
To read Doris’ obituary, please visit: http://www.ezotter.net/sharing/DMC/DMC.htm
