Tommie Joe Conner

Tommie Joe Conner, a beloved soul who lived for 88 remarkable years, departed from this world on October 20, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and craftsmanship, cherished by those who had the honor of knowing him.

Born on December 10, 1936, in the warm embrace of his family home in Lee County, Texas, Tommie was the son of Samuel Lee Conner and Lilly Ada (LA) Smith. His journey through life led him to the heart of Austin, where he wed the love of his life, Grace Edna Davidson, on September 11, 1954. This union sparked a partnership filled with devotion and shared dreams that flourished for over seven decades.

A proud graduate of Travis High School, Tommie's industrious spirit shone brightly from an early age. He began his career delivering telegrams for Western Union, a prelude to his dedication to service in the U.S. Navy Reserve. His professional path eventually led him to the City of Austin, where he honed his skills as a welder before advancing to the position of senior engineering technician in power production.

Upon retiring from both the Navy Reserve and the City of Austin, Tommie and Grace found new purpose as they dedicated over 22 years to volunteering with the Baptist Builders. Together, they traveled across Texas, hand-in-hand, building churches and creating sanctuaries of faith for communities in need. Tommie's talent for woodworking was evident in the beautiful cedar boxes he crafted, gifts treasured by his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and even great-great-grandchildren—each box a piece of his heart, lovingly made to hold memories.

Beyond his hands-on contributions, Tommie’s spirit resonated within the Onion Creek Masonic Lodge, where he was both a Master and an instructor, nurturing the growth of brotherhood and community values among his peers.

Tommie is survived by his devoted wife, Grace; his sons, Derrell Conner and wife Connie, Jimmy Conner and wife Linda, and Glenn Conner; and a myriad of grandchildren who carry forward the love and lessons he imparted.

In celebration of his incredible life, friends and family are invited to gather for a visitation on Friday, October 24, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Providence-Jones Family Funeral Home. A Celebration of Life will be held the following day, Saturday, October 25, 2025, at 11:00 AM, also at Providence-Jones Family Funeral Home, followed by interment at Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Elgin.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, a testament to Tommie's lifelong dedication to service and support for those who served.

Though he has left this earthly realm, Tommie Joe Conner’s essence will forever resonate in the hearts and minds of all who knew him.