David Donald Conley

David Donald Conley, 68, of Bedford, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Tuesday, February 6th at the QEII hospital. He was born in Sydney, Nova Scotia on October 20th1955 to the late Donald and Shirley Conley, whom he loved very much. David is survived by his daughter, Samantha Conley, partner, Nancy Wallace (Megan Wallace-Grant, Anthony Grant and grandson, Nash Wallace-Grant) his brother, Kevin Conley (Patsy Newman and his niece Tess (Katherine) and great-niece Zinnia). Maureen and Harrison Newman.

At a young age his family moved to Bedford, where David continued living in his beloved community. David graduated from Dalhousie University with a Bachelor of Physical Education Degree and earned a Masters of Education Degree from Mount Saint Vincent University. He achieved the highest level of certification in teaching.

David taught the majority of his forty year career in Bedford. He began teaching Physical Education, later transitioning into the classroom, and eventually Administration. In the latter part of his career, David chose to return to the classroom. He thoroughly enjoyed his time when he was seconded to be part of Strategic Planning for HREC. He later formed his own company D-Con Strategic Planning. David was extremely hardworking and took pride in everything he did.

David was a lifelong learner and an inspiring and gifted educator. Mr. Conley was the teacher everyone remembers. He was instrumental in developing character and instilling confidence. He was compassionate, protective, patient, encouraging and made every student feel secure. He recognized the unique qualities in every child and believed in their potential. David made an impact on many lives and connected with all ages. He was a storyteller with a brilliant sense of humour. He was witty, charismatic and had an infectious laugh. David was a wonderful communicator and great conversationalist. He was a mentor, sounding board and someone you could discuss all aspects of life with. David was supportive and always provided insight and wisdom. David was an incredible human being; a person of integrity and a true gentleman. He treated people with kindness and respect. Children looked forward to spending their summer days with Mr. Conley; an exceptional and outstanding Coordinator of the Bedford Academy Summer Camp for the past twenty years.

He celebrated life to the fullest and understood the essence of happiness. He showed gratitude and cherished every moment with loved ones. He was an amazing and loving father. He coached basketball for years with Samantha playing under his tutelage, for several of those years. He often chauffeured Samantha and her teammates to their tournaments and was entertained when the girls serenaded him with their favourite songs. During Samantha’s childhood, David spent many summers volunteering with the Bedford Beavers when she swam for the team. He loved meeting her for breakfast and enjoyed long walks with her dogs. David was very proud of her and took great joy in being a father. He loved dearly his soulmate, Nancy. They spent thirty-six wonderful years together and treasured their time. They shared the same outlook on life and had great love, respect and admiration for each other. David looked forward to their annual and memorable trips to Boston. He absolutely loved Sunday BBQs at Anthony and Megan’s and cheering on the Patriots, while still continuing to root for Tom Brady. He loved all genres of music and always danced to Motown. David enjoyed time with family in Mahone Bay and vacations to Sunday River, Siesta Key and Exuma. He loved and adored his grandson, Nash. They shared a beautiful bond and were the best of friends. David was present, playful, beyond thoughtful and taught Nash so much. We will forever be grateful for their precious time together. David loved his younger brother Kevin and enjoyed catching up over breakfast and watching their favourite sports. David was his role model and their childhood summers were spent sailing on the Bedford Basin. David was a very community-oriented person and spent many years giving back. He was a Board Member of The Scott Manor House. David greatly appreciated and was thankful for all of the incredible people he met throughout his life.

We love you David…you will remain in our hearts forever.

Thank you to Dr. Bob Abraham, Dr. Emille Saad, Dr. Stephen Lownie and the Nursing Staff on the Neurosurgery Ward.

Donations may be made to the QEII Health Sciences Centre Foundation.

A celebration of David’s life and legacy will be held on Saturday, May 25th, 2024 from 2:00pm-4:00pm in Academy Hall at Bedford Academy 5 Brookshire Court, Bedford