of Jonesboro, AR
June 9, 1953 - February 19, 2024
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of James Martin Conner, aged 70, on Wednesday, February 21, 2024. Born on June 9, 1953 to Velma and Martin Conner of Broseley, MO. Jim's life was a vivid narrative of love, resilience and adventure. Residing in Jonesboro, AR with his wife, Sandy, Jim's story is one of enduring love and joyful partnership.
Jim leaves behind a legacy of love and perseverance, survived by his dearly loved wife, Sandy; his daughter, Hannah Runyan (Brock); his sons, Matt Conner and Wesley Conner; his devoted parents, Velma and Martin Conner; his loving mother-in-law, Judy Johnson; as well as many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
An avid golfer, Jim passed on his love for the game to his children, though his wife, Sandy, amusingly never took it up. With a twinkle in his eye, he would share the beloved family tale of how she found him on the 7th hole of the Westwood Hills golf course and never let him return, showcasing his humor and the couple's playful bond. Jim's life was a shared journey of love and adventure, a testament to the philosophy of working hard and playing harder.
His career in the paint and flooring industry was marked by a relentless work ethic, integrity and innovation, embodying the spirit of entrepreneurship and adventure. Despite a seven-year battle with kidney disease, culminating in a kidney transplant in 2022, Jim's gratitude for each new day was unwavering. He taught everyone around him the value of resilience, the importance of laughter and the power of living with an open heart.
A proud member of the Pentecostals of Jonesboro, Jim's faith was a cornerstone of his life. A beacon of wisdom, adventure and hard work, Jim added a layer of joy and harmony to the lives around him through his saxophone tunes, guidance and mentorship.
The family will receive friends on Friday, February 23rd from 5 7 p.m. at The Pentecostals of Jonesboro, 5312 S. Caraway Rd., Jonesboro, AR 72404. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, February 24th at 10 a.m. at The Pentecostals of Jonesboro. A graveside service will be conducted at 2 p.m. at Poplar Bluff City Cemetery 1901 N. Main Street, Poplar Bluff, MO 63901.
Pallbearers will be Matt Conner, Wesley Conner, Harrison Anderson, Logan Bray, Nathan Buie, Josh Cantu, Ja Carson, Tony Goforth and Craig O'Brien. Honorary Pallbearers will be Rick Conner, Jim Johnson, JR Johnson and Johnny Buie.
Jim will be profoundly missed, but his legacy of embracing life's challenges with courage and finding joy in every moment will forever inspire those fortunate enough to have known him.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests lasting memorials be made to UMAS Organ Donation.
My prayers are with Hannah and her family. I pray for peace, strength and guidance for the entire family.
Was a pleasure to know you in the short time of working. God bless.
Jim was a good man that will be dearly missed! All my love, thoughts, hugs and of course prayers go to his beloved family ??
We are so sorry to hear of Jim's passing. What a great guy that had a bigger than life personality and smile! Our prayers are with you Sandy and family!??
Dear Sandy,
I am so sorry for your loss. I remember Jim’s smile and his love for life.
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Love & Prayers, Betty Parkey
Miss Sandy. I am so sorry for your loss. Jim was a WONDERFUL MAN of God.
Our prayers are with your family during this time of loss. I got to know Jim when we worked together at Barton's. It was a privilege to call him my friend and he will be greatly missed.
My prayers for the family, Jim was a good friend.