Alma Virginia McCorkle was born January 11, 1947, in Mangham, Louisiana, to Lueretha Little (Wilhite).

Preceding her in death are her mother and father, Early and Lueretha Little; three brothers, Edward E. Wilhite, James E. Wilhite, and Frank L. Little; two sons, Brian Carter, and Joe McCorkle III.

As the second-born child in her family, she took great pride in looking out for her younger siblings. She would maintain this commitment to her family for the rest of her life.

Early in life, she attended Tried Stone Baptist Church, where she was a choir member. In addition to the church, Alma also enjoyed learning.

In 1966, she completed her high school diploma from Carroll High School in Monroe, Louisiana. After graduating from high school, Alma moved to Kansas City, Missouri, to seek new employment opportunities and join some of her family members living there. Once in Kansas City, she expanded her love for church by joining Rising Star Missionary Baptist Church, where she was a member for over 50 years.

In Alma's early years in Kansas City, she held various jobs until she secured her career in the Laundry Industry at Service Industrial.

While working for Laundry Industry at Service Industrial, Alma met the love of her life, Joe Lee McCorkle II. Alma and Joe married in 1969, and they stayed married for over 54 years and raised four children.

After having children, Alma decided to continue her education and enrolled in Concord Career College. In addition to her family, she became part of a robust card-playing community. Through this community, she found many friendships which she truly cherished. In 1989, she earned her certification as a Medical and Nursing Assistant. Upon completing her education, she received her hands-on training under the leadership of Pediatrician Dr. Richard E. Spence. She then went on to gain employment with Carondelet Manor Nursing Home, where she worked until her retirement in early 2000.

During her retirement, Alma worked seasonally for Internal Revenue Services. She was a fun-loving person who never met a stranger and held so much love for her neighborhood. She adored playing games and was a devoted Chiefs fan.

Left to cherish her memory is her husband, Joe Lee McCorkle II; two daughters, Valerie McCorkle and Kerra Akanbi (Ademola); two daughters-in-law, Linda Carter and Teena Johnson; six granddaughters, Lawanda Carter, Jasamine Sheppard, Brittany Sheppard, Diamond Lee, Ayoade Akanbi, and Eniade Akanbi; two grandsons, Brian Carter Jr. and Joron McCorkle; one great-granddaughter, Adrienne Jones; three sisters, Bonnie Little, Marilyn Crow (Curvie), and Ella Natt-Hannon; one brother, Thomas (Bud) Little (Audrey); and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.

Thoughtful care and services provided by E. S. Eley & Sons Funeral Chapel, Inc.