Buford Conner

Buford Conner passed away Thursday, February 13th at Gardner Nursing Home in Star City. Buford was born on July 4, 1928 to Fred and Freddie Conner in Palmyra, Arkansas. He is predeceased by both parents, his sister Joy, two siblings who died shortly after birth and half-sisters, Rita Smith and Margie Sharp. Buford is survived by his wife of 68 years, Thelma Ellington Conner, daughter, Pam Leidermann (Michel), son, Keith (Donna), grandchildren, William Keith and Kristen Anne Conner and great-granddaughter, Riley. Upon high school graduation, Buford enlisted into the Navy. He served one tour of duty and was store keeper on the USS Macon and returned to Arkansas to begin his college education on the GI bill. He met his wife Thelma while at Arkansas A&M (University of Arkansas at Monticello). Buford furthered his studies and received a Master's in Education from the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville. He and Thelma moved to Tillar in 1951 where he taught Agriculture and History and they began their family. In 1956, Buford was named Superintendent of Schools at Desha Central Schools in Rohwer, Arkansas. (Rohwer was one of two Japanese Relocation Centers in Arkansas during World War Two.) He and his family lived on the grounds of the Relocation Center. In 1965, Buford was named Superintendent of Schools in McGehee. He held this position until he retired in 1986, and was proud to say his adult life was spent entirely in Desha County. Buford was a member of the First Baptist Church in McGehee where he served as deacon, taught Sunday School and held various other lay positions. He also held many state school level related positions until his retirement. Buford was a member of McGehee Rotary, served many years on the McGehee Hospital Board, was a 32nd Degree Mason, American Legion Post member, and a Shriner. Retirement provided him more time to play golf, travel in their motor home, enjoy the Mt. Elba Hunting Club and check on his farms in Tillar. His legacy of love for his family, patience and high integrity continues to live on without him. The family would also like to thank Gardner Nursing Home and Arkansas Hospice for their superb care. Services will be held Saturday at 1 p.m., February 15th at Hickory Grove Baptist Church west of Star City and burial will be in the family plot under the direction of Brother William Hilburn. Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church of McGehee, Hickory Grove Cemetery or Hickory Grove Church or the charity of your choice. Services are under the direction of Griffin Services, Inc., in Star City. Online guestbook at www.griffinfuneralservice.net.