Billy R. Corretti

CORRETTI, Billy R., at the age of 95, passed away October 27, 2018. He was a life-long resident of Jefferson County, born in Fairfield on August 24, 1923, and lived in Vestavia Hills for over 60 years. Mr. Corretti was the second son of John B. and Lucy Corretti. After graduating from Fairfield High School in 1941, he attended the University of Alabama. He joined the U.S. Army Air Corps as an officer in 1942 and was trained as a bombardier in the Eighth Air Force before serving in the European Theater. In 1943 his plane was shot down and he was injured and captured by the Germans. He was a prisoner of war until 1945. Upon his return to the United States, Mr. Corretti received the Prisoner of War Medal, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the Purple Heart, and the Air Medal recognizing heroism and meritorious achievement while participating in aerial flight. He remained on inactive duty until 1950 when he was recalled to active duty for two years during the Korean Conflict. On October 19, 1946, Mr. Corretti married Betty Sue Goodwin of Albertville, Alabama. The following year they welcomed their only daughter, Suzanne. Mr. Corretti joined his father in the construction business, and was responsible for the development of Vestavia Hills and the construction of countless houses and apartment buildings throughout Jefferson County. In retirement, Mr. Corretti enjoyed golfing with his many friends at Vestavia Country Club and spending time with his grandson, Corey. He was a lifelong fan and booster of the University of Alabama football program and spent most Saturdays either at the games or watching on television. Mr. Corretti was predeceased by his parents, his brother Douglas Corretti, and his sister Doris Stomps. He is survived by his wife of 72 years, Betty Goodwin Corretti, his daughter Suzanne Corretti Harris (Dr. Alun) of Vestavia Hills, and his grandson William Corretti “Corey” Harris (Ashley) of Tampa, Florida. He is also survived by his sister Betty Estock and brother Johnnie Corretti. Services will be Wednesday, October 31 at Elmwood Chapel. Visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m. followed by the service at 11:00 a.m. Memorials may be made to Vestavia Hills United Methodist Church Lighthouse or Big Oak Ranch.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.johnsridoutselmwoodchapel.com for the CORRETTI family.