Jerry Dean Conner

Jerry Dean Conner, age 85, passed away peacefully at StoryPoint of Troy, surrounded by family.

Jerry was born on October 29, 1940, in Borger, Texas, to Flavel and Opal (McCarty) Conner. Although he was an only child, he was blessed with a close-knit group of cousins who were an important part of his life. Because of his father’s work, the family moved frequently during his childhood. He often joked that he attended 36 different schools, a story he loved to share with anyone who would listen.

At the age of 18, Jerry joined the United States Air Force, beginning a career that would shape the rest of his life. During his service, he met Joe Abshire, who would become one of his closest friends. Joe eventually brought Jerry home to Troy, Ohio for the holidays, and it was there that Jerry met his first wife, Rosemary, Joe’s little sister. Jerry’s military career took the family all over the country, and along the way, he left a trail of wonderful memories for everyone who knew him.

To his children, Jerry was the kind of father who could turn ordinary moments into something magical. While stationed at Langley, he found surplus NASA materials and built the most unique playhouse in the yard. It wasn’t just a playhouse — it was an adventure, a creation born from his brilliant mind and generous heart.

At Tyndall Air Force Base, after finishing a midnight shift, he would sometimes wake one of the kids before dawn to go fishing off the old bridge to the base. Those quiet early mornings, the calm water, and his endless conversations about the stars became treasured memories. Jerry loved teaching and especially loved sharing his knowledge of the night sky.

While stationed at Edwards Air Force Base, Jerry worked long hours and often spent the week away at Area 51, returning home only on weekends — a “weekend dad,” just like many members of the Red Hat Squadron working on the F117a. During those years, the families stationed there formed deep bonds through shared sacrifice and pride, especially with friends like the Landavazos and the Holwagers. Those friendships became an important part of their lives.

Jerry proudly served 20 years in the United States Air Force, retiring after a dedicated career. He returned to similar work with Lockheed, where he built a second career before eventually retiring 23 years later. Those who knew him believe he missed that life deeply — the sense of purpose, the camaraderie, and the mission.

In retirement, Jerry found new joy with his camping buddies, his Harley family, and travelling on his Harley to the East Coast to visit his daughter Jules and his grandchildren. Family visits were always memorable — especially because he would often try to sneak away without saying goodbye. He rarely succeeded; someone always caught him before he could slip out the door.

He eventually moved to Troy, Ohio, to be near family. His summer Harley trips were made in reverse to visit his son and daughter in California. His friends will remember how he would stop on his way — and again on his way home — simply to spend time with them. That was Jerry: someone who valued connection, friendship, and a good visit along the road.

Jerry leaves behind his three children, Jules (Francis) Harris, Susan (Erik) Steeb, and Steven (Nicole) Conner. He adored his grandchildren, Caity (James) Klawon, Conner Klawon, Carragan Klawon, Chloe (Andres) Klawon, Abbey Conner, and Caroline Klawon, who brought him endless pride and joy.

He was preceded in death recently by his favorite cousin, Russ Conner.

He also leaves behind a large and loyal pack of friends in California who love to tell his stories and who are heartbroken by his passing.

Before he could no longer say it, Jerry told his family that he had “a great run.” And he truly did.

He was the smartest man his family ever knew. He was deeply loved. His family finds peace knowing he was ready.

Thank you to everyone who loved him and shared in his life. Especially his StoryPoint family who took great care of him, learned his humor, listened to his stories and showed us how much they truly cared at the end. We are also grateful to Hospice of Ohio for their compassion with us as the end drew near. Somewhere tonight, beneath a sky full of stars, we imagine Jerry still pointing them out — just like he always did.

There will be a military service at the Dayton VA Cemetery on April 16th at 1pm We will gather to tell stories about Jerry at Jules and Francis' house afterwards.

In lieu of flowers, please donate in Jerry's memory to one of the following charities that he supported:

Needy Basket Food Pantry, Tipp City needybasket.org

Stealth Fighter Association https://www.f117sfa.org/

Hospice of Ohio ohioshospice.org/troy/