Major John Ernest Conley was born in Warren, Michigan, in 1942 to Irene and George Conley. He passed to his heavenly home May 2nd, 2024. He is survived by his wife Stephanie; children George and Irene; and sister Eunice. His sisters Clara and Virginia preceded him to heaven.
At 17 years of age, Johnny enlisted in the Marines and rose to the rank of Sergeant First Class.
After Johnny left the Marines, he joined the Army and received Officer’s Training. He served two tours of duty in Vietnam and rose to the rank of Major. He and the men he served with are very close. While in the Army, Johnny pursued his interrupted education and graduated from college.
Johnny and Stephanie married in 1991. They were very devoted to each other and loved to dance and swim together.
At 50 years of age, Johnny went to law school and began a new career as a lawyer. In later years, he wrote and published an amazing book on his days in the military. He also wrote a draft of a children’s book starring his beloved wild bunnies.
After he broke a femur from a fall, Johnny had many medical problems. Most recently, he acquired MDS, possibly caused by his exposure to Agent Orange while in Vietnam. This ended in his death on May 2nd.
We are certain that Johnny is with the Lord and will also be with us again one day
Thomas B. Dobies Funeral Home - Seven Springs Chapel
St. Vincent De Paul Roman Catholic Church
Calvary Catholic Cemetery
Eugene Groesbeck
May 11, 2024, 11:44 pm
My condolences on the passing of my cousin John. I have fond memories of him. A few years ago I read his book about his tours of duty during the Vietnam War. I was riveted by it. He was a true American hero and will be missed. May he rest in peace.
Daryl Pallas
May 12, 2024, 12:34 am
Are there any special donation societies that John’s family has identified, in his name, instead of sending flowers?
Let us know.
Thanks
Gary Groesbeck
May 12, 2024, 11:44 am
RIP Johnny 🙏🙏🙏
Lieutenant General Ronald L. Watts
May 14, 2024, 9:39 pm
Major John Conley served his County a Marine and as a US Army officer, including service in Vietnam with his Cavalry units. John also served the Society of the First Infantry Division as the Staff Judge Advocate. Major Conley was devoted to his Cavalry soldiers and to the First Infantry Division. He shall be missed.
LTG Ronald L. Watts
US Army Retired
President
Society of the First Infantry Division
Cheryl Fletcher
May 15, 2024, 4:17 am
Losing someone as special as our Uncle Johnny is incredibly difficult, and I want to express my sincerest sympathies to you and your family. He had a remarkable ability to light up a room and make everyone feel loved and valued.
Johnny took on many forms, Son, Brother, Husband, Father, Uncle, Friend but anyone who served their country with such pride and distinction is without a doubt a hero. May he never be forgotten
Gary Bol
May 16, 2024, 11:05 pm
Condolences to Stephanie and family from Marylin Bol, wife of Chaplain Doug Bol.
Algie Warren
May 22, 2024, 2:59 pm
So sorry to learn of John’s passing. Spoke to him while he was in hospital recently. He and I were classmates in Infantry Officer Candidate School graduating 2-66. prayers Was always great seeing he and Stephanie at our OCS class reunions. Thoughts and prayers are with you and family RIP old soldier