In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to The Tucson Auto Museum. Dad would have loved this little piece of history. Let's honor his memory with something he would have smiled to see. 

https://www.tucsonautomuseum.…

John "Johnnie" Franklin Conner, Sr.

Born on a crisp winter morning, January 3, 1935, in San Angelo, Texas, John "Johnnie" Franklin Conner, Sr. entered the world with a spirit as steadfast as the Texas plains that shaped him. On September 6, 2025, our beloved patriarch was gently called home to his Lord and Savior, reunited at last with his cherished wife, Evelyn, who had preceded him just eight months earlier on Christmas Eve.

Known affectionately as Johnnie, his life was a masterpiece of courage, dedication, and streadfast strength tempered by profound kindness and generosity. His presence commanded respect, yet his heart overflowed with compassion for those he held dear. With an unshakeable faith in Jesus and a devotion to family that knew no bounds, Johnnie's 90-year journey was a testament to honor, service, and love that transcends generations.

Johnnie's call to serve his country began early, enlisting in the United States Navy 04/20/1955 at the age of 20. For nine distinguished years, he served with valor and distinction, rising to the rank of Lieutenant Commander (O-4) before his honorable discharge on 12/10/1964. His service spanned some of our nation's most pivotal moments—the Korean War, the Cuban Missile Crisis, and Vietnam—aboard the USS Kearsarge and USS Canberra. His courage under fire and leadership in the face of adversity embodied the very best of American military tradition. He was a patriot and a soldier through and through.

On May 27, 1958, while still serving his country, Johnnie married the love of his life, Evelyn Faye Plumer. Their 66-year love story was a beacon of faithfulness, partnership, and commitment—a testament to what it means to walk through life hand in hand with your greatest blessing. Together, they built a legacy rooted in faith, family, and unwavering commitment to one another.

After his military service, Johnnie channeled his mechanical expertise and entrepreneurial spirit into founding JDJ Automotive, where his skilled hands and honest work ethic earned him the respect of his community. Later, as a master mechanic for the Marana School District, he continued his life of service, ensuring the safe transportation of countless children while mentoring younger mechanics in the craft he had mastered.

Johnnie's passions ran deep and true. His love for Jesus anchored every decision, his devotion to family guided every day, and his fascination with history, classic automobiles, motorcycles, and firearms reflected his appreciation for craftsmanship and American heritage. Those who knew him understood the beautiful paradox of his character—a man whose intimidating strength was matched only by the tenderness of his heart.

He preceded in death by his wife, Evelyn F. Conner. As a father, Johnnie was a pillar of strength and wisdom to his children: John F. Conner, Jr., Charles Marshall "Dutch" Conner II, and Jennifer S. Rainey. His legacy shines brightly through his grandchildren—Johnny and Meaghan Kostolnik, Noah and Alyssa Conner, Dominic Paolini, and Jazzmyne Paolini—and his great-grandchildren: Nash Kostolnik, Remington Kostolnik, Amorie Leota-Retana, Damian Hernandez Leota, and Evelyn Winter Conner, who carries forward the name of his beloved wife.

To celebrate Johnnie's extraordinary life, a memorial service will be held on October 4, 2025, at 2:00 PM at the Tucson Auto Museum, 4825 N Sabino Canyon Road, Tucson, Arizona 85750—a fitting tribute surrounded by the classic automobiles that brought him such joy and reflected his appreciation for timeless artistry.

Though Johnnie's powerful presence is no longer among us, his spirit endures—protecting, guiding, and inspiring us. His faith, strength, and love will forever echo in the hearts of his family and friends. To his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, he leaves an inheritance beyond measure: a legacy of honor, service, and profound faithfulness to God and family.

Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends. John 15:13

But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:31

For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. Philippians 1:21

Johnnie will be laid to rest alongside his beloved Evelyn at the Arizona Veterans' Memorial Cemetery at Marana on January 6,2026, where his final resting place will honor both his distinguished military service and their eternal love story.

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