Photo courtesy of Swartz Funeral Home - Flint
Flint, Michigan
Dec 7, 1944 – Jan 7, 2024
Formerly of Grand Blanc, MI, age 79, passed away Sunday, January 7, 2024 in Fennville, MI. He was born December 7, 1944, in Bethel, OH, to Walter and Lavena (Day) Conner.
Jim’s early career was as an ordained minister in the Church of the Nazarene. He pastored churches in Ohio, New Jersey, and Michigan. In 1985, Jim met Diane Pierson and they married on March 1, 1986. Jim and Diane opened the James Conner Gallery in Grand Blanc, MI in 1997, and later opened a second location in Saugatuck, MI. Jim always loved the Lord and started a nondenominational church, Place of Grace, conducting services at his Grand Blanc gallery. He also hosted a daily radio show, American Faith Broadcast, for many years on WSNL 600. During his time in Grand Blanc, he was passionate about supporting local businesses and the arts. He will be remembered for his enduring faith and artistic talent.
Survivors include his loving wife, Diane; his children, Sarah (Kim) Conner-Gorbach, James (Brad Tucker) Conner, Daniel (Chelsea) Conner, Lisa (Don) Like; grandchildren, Olivia, Stella, Calvin, Evelyn, Jeffrey, and Maxwell; his sister Pam Allen; and his brother Tim Conner.
He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Portia McClellan.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00am on Monday, January 15 at Swartz Funeral Home, 1225 West Hill Road, Flint. Visitation will be from 10:00am on Monday until the time of service.
The Conner family expresses their gratitude for the love and support they have received during this time of mourning. In honor of Jim's life, the family requests that those wishing to make an expression of sympathy consider donating to the Alzheimer’s Association (www.alz.org), Evergreen Commons in Holland, where Jim received excellent care and spent many happy days (www.evergreencommons.org), or the Grand Blanc Heritage Association (https.grandblancmuseum.com)
Read MoreI wish I could have been there today to honor the memory of my wonderful brother. I am praying for all of our family and know that we have the blessed hope of being with him again in heaven. Jim, you taught me much and I have always been so proud of you. All my love, Pam
Pamela Allen
January 17, 2024 | Sardinia, OH | Sister
Diane and family I am so sorry to see the loss of James. I used to work at the kids peds office and he was always so nice when he brought them in. I will keep you all lifted in prayers during this difficult time.
Karry Lundquist
January 15, 2024 | Otisville, MI | Acquaintance
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
CHERYL PIERSON
January 15, 2024 | AMELIA, OH | Classmate
Both Don and I are holding Diane and family in our thoughts and prayers. Jim was such a wonderful kind man. He also was a great help when Don wanted to start going to art fairs. Jim ALWAYS had a suggestion about what should be presented and what fairs were good for Don's photography. We both appreciated and love Jim.
Don Bomeli
January 15, 2024 | Friend
Diane and family, so sorry for your loss. May your memories give you comfort. God bless. Hugs.
Nola VanDyk
January 14, 2024
James was such a beautiful man with talent beyond words. He was a great blessing to his community and to all who knew him. I'll forever cherish his painting I own. Heartfelt condolences to his family...the world was a better place with him in it.
L. Topham
January 14, 2024 | Other
Sending sincere condolences to Diane and the whole family
Deb Meissner
January 10, 2024