CLARA LEE CONEY

Clara’s Story

Born as the first child to James Daniel (JD) Hishaw and Mary Starr on July 15, 1939, in Idabel, Oklahoma, Clara Lee Hishaw’s life was a testament to unwavering faith and enduring love. As the oldest daughter of twenty-one siblings and the granddaughter of a minister, her love for family and spiritual foundation in Jesus Christ was laid early and remained the guiding light of her remarkable journey.

A Journey Rooted in Love and Learning

During her school years, Clara's family moved to Cooper, Texas. As a young girl, her passion for reading, writing, and learning blossomed into lifelong joys. Though naturally shy, her quiet grace at Booker T. Washington High School captured the attention of a charismatic classmate, Elmo Coney. Fate intervened beautifully when Reese Walker, a family friend, offered to pick up Clara's family for Sunday service at New Zion Baptist Church, insisting she meet her nephew – who, to their delight, was Elmo. In that serendipitous moment at church, Clara and Elmo "knew." Their connection deepened, leading to their marriage on July 26, 1957. A few years later, they moved their growing family from Cooper to Dallas, Texas, laying down roots for generations to come.

A Pillar of Faith and Family

Settling in South Dallas on Birmingham Avenue, Clara and her family found a spiritual home at Ervay Cedar Baptist Church under the guidance of Reverend W.H. Harlan. For over five decades, she remained a devoted member, even participating in online services in her final days. Her dedication to her church was evident in her many leadership roles, including serving for decades as President of the Usher Board and as a beloved Sunday School teacher. In time, she and Elmo moved to Sonora Avenue, where she lovingly raised her children and grandchildren, gracefully embracing her rightful role as the revered matriarch of the Coney family.

A Trailblazing Spirit

Clara was truly a trailblazer, especially during an era when few women worked outside the home, drove cars, or managed their own bank accounts. For many years, she dedicated herself to supporting the Najork family while simultaneously pursuing her own educational aspirations. An avid scholar and a passionate advocate for high academic achievement, she earned an Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education from Eastfield Community College. Her deep love for learning and profound faith in Christ culminated in an eight-year study at Southern Bible Institute, where she earned a Certificate in Biblical Studies, further enriching her spirit with two years of continuing education courses at Faith Bible Institute. Her life exemplified a relentless pursuit of knowledge and spiritual growth.

A Cherished Legacy

Left to cherish her profound memory are her loving children: sons Lemo Coney II and Graylon Ray Coney Sr., both of Dallas, TX; Darry (Yvonne) Porter Sr. of Mesquite, TX; and Vincent (Aracely) Calhoun of Fort Worth, TX; and daughter Balinda (Geary) Rockwell of Ore City, TX. Her legacy beautifully continues through her 22 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by 7 sisters, 4 brothers and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends who were blessed by her presence.

Clara was preceded in death by the love of her life, her husband, Elmo Coney, and her beloved first-born daughter and best friend, Bobbie Nell Cook. Their memories, along with her unwavering spirit, will forever remain in the hearts of those she touched.