Born and raised in the Fudges Chapel, Conner was a man of integrity. Known for his unwavering dedication to the safety and wellbeing of his neighbors. He proudly served as Fire Chief of Kingsport for 17 years during his 36-year career. During which time he led his team with courage, compassion, and unrelenting commitment to protecting the community he loved. His leadership was marked by his deep sense of duty. Whether on the front lines of emergency calls or working tirelessly behind the scenes to implement new innovations within the department.
Additionally, he served actively in the Tennessee Fire Service and served as President of the Tennessee Farmers Association, the Tennessee Fire Safety Inspections Association, and the Tennessee Fire Chiefs Association. He also served on the Board of Directors for the Kingsport Emergency Communication District and the Kingsport Life Saving Crew.
Conner was a devoted husband to his wife of over 40 years, Joyce Fleenor Caldwell, who preceeds him. He was also preceded in death by sister, Bea Winstead and brothers Lester and Jerry Caldwell.
Conner is survived by daughter Dianna Bridwell and husband Steve, stepdaughter Diane McKamey Godwin and husband Jerry and stepson Jeff McKamey and wife Paula. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren Lindsey Lettich and husband Greg, Haley Owens, Meghan McKamey and Andrew McKamey and wife Ashley, Hannah Godwin, and Taylor Godwin. He is also survived by great-grandchildren Cooper Owens, Olivia, and Emma McKamey.
Services will be conducted by Pastors Collin Adams and Kenneth Calvert at Waverly Road Presbyterian Church on Thursday, October 17th. The family will receive friends at the church from 10-11am, the funeral will follow. Graveside services will be held at East Lawn Cemetery directly following the funeral service.
The Kingsport Fire Department Honor Guard will serve as the pallbearers and conduct an honors ceremony.
SHARE OBITUARYSHARE
v.1.12.1