Cliff Conley Tunnell

1950 - 2023

Tunnell, C. Conley

February 25, 1950 - October 3, 2023

Surrounded by family, Cliff Conley Tunnell passed away on Tuesday, October 3, 2023, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, at the age of 73. Conley was born to Wallace and Freda LaFern Tunnell on February 25, 1950, in Altus, Oklahoma. Conley was predeceased by his father, Walt; mother, LaFern; and brother, Kerry. He is survived by his wife, Nancy of 20 years.

 

Conley has five children and eight grandchildren: son, Christopher Conley Tunnell, wife, Autumn Tunnell; granddaughters, Bailey, Francesca, Skylar, and Harper; son, Justin Tunnell; daughter, Allison Irvin, husband, Jason Irvin; grandsons, Tristan and Daylen Conley; granddaughters, Maizie and Merrick; daughter, Adison Tunnell; daughter, Casidy Tunnell; sister-in-law, Sunny Tunnell; uncle to Taylor and Zoe.

 

Conley attended Memorial High School in Tulsa during his junior year. Conley's family moved to Denver, Colorado his senior year, where he graduated from Lakewood High School in 1968. In 1978, Conley graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Liberal Studies from the University of Oklahoma.

 

Conley was active in Oklahoma children's services for over 30 years. In addition to his work in child welfare, Conley served the Tulsa County Sheriff's office and he owned and operated Julep's, an award-winning fine-dining restaurant in Oklahoma City. In 2008, Conley was instrumental in creating a behavioral health company called Daybreak Family Services and served as the President and CEO. Because of his leadership, Daybreak will continue to have a lasting impact on hundreds of families for years to come.

 

Conley was the most hospitable and gracious person. He loved to take care of people; whether in children's programs or the restaurant business, Conley had a spirit to serve. He was passionate about serving his community, and he left a positive impact on so many people. A great conversationalist, people adored Conley and loved being around him. Conley was kind-hearted, fun, and truly one of a kind. He loved to fish with his father, brother, children, and grandchildren. He spent many hours at Ft. Gibson Lake and enjoyed being on the water. Conley kept in contact with many friends, with most of his friendships lasting over 50 years. He will be dearly missed.

 

Services were held on October 12th, 2023 at Calvary Cemetery. In keeping with Conley's wishes, the family requests that donations be made to any local or national organization helping children and families in need.