Edward M. "Ned" Conklin III

Edward Marinus "Ned" Conklin III, age 81, a resident of The Maynard in Strasburg, VA, went home to be with the Lord on December 5, 2025, after a valiant, decades-long battle with Parkinson's Disease.

Ned served as Shenandoah County's Extension Agent for 28 years, where he formed valued relationships with area farmers and members of the community. His influence, contributions, and dedication were evident and deeply respected across the agricultural community he so dearly loved. Ned's walk with Christ shaped every part of his life. A devoted follower of Jesus, he was deeply committed to serving the church, faithfully ministering as a lay preacher and giving generously of his time, gifts, and encouragement among his local church community.

Ned's favorite pastimes included woodcarving, horseback riding, and enjoying nature - although carving was so much more than a hobby. He was a true artist with an amazing gift that he enjoyed sharing with others. His deep appreciation for God's creation shone through in the ducks and birds he so meticulously carved. Many he donated to support Disaster Relief efforts over the years. Others remain with his loved ones to remind us of the gift that he was to us all-and the gift he shared with us through his art. Ned also loved exploring the Valley's rich history, riding mountain trails with friends, and participating in numerous John Kline Memorial Rides with the Brethren Church. Among those who held a special place in his heart was his dear friend, Fred Garber, with whom he shared many treasured rides, conversations, and memories. Ned found great joy in the outdoors, whether tending to his beautifully manicured yard, bird-watching, or walking hand-in-hand with his wife, who he so adored, chatting warmly with cherished neighbors.

Ned is survived by his beloved wife of sixty years, LoraLee, also a resident of The Maynard in Strasburg, VA; his four daughters: Crystal Biller (wife of Jay Biller of Charleston, SC), Kim Brian (wife of Neal Brian of Woodstock, VA), Linda Hodges (wife of Tom Hodges of Maurertown, VA), and Laura Conklin of Charlottesville, VA; ten grandchildren; and ten great-grandchildren. Ned was a true family man-respected, adored, and lovingly teased for his hearty appetite, especially for a good home-cooked meal or sweet treats.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Audria Conklin, and is survived by his brother, Sky Conklin of Lexington, VA, and two sisters, Betsy Beade of Wilmington, NC, and Alicia Wood of Lancaster, PA.

The family wishes to extend our heartfelt appreciation to the dedicated and loving staff at The Maynard and Blue Ridge Hospice, as well as to the many friends, church family, and members of the community who called, visited, and surrounded Ned with love. Your friendship, kindness, and support brought him great comfort and joy. He was deeply grateful for each of you-and so are we.

His gentle spirit, generous heart, and unwavering dedication to family will forever be cherished. Though we grieve his loss, we are grateful for the years we were blessed to share with him. Ned lived a life filled with love, compassion, and quiet courage, leaving behind a legacy that will never be forgotten.

A memorial service for Ned will be held at Antioch Church in Woodstock, on Wednesday, December 10th at 11 am. Family visitation will be at 10 a.m. Private burial will be at Wakemans Grove Church in Edinburg, VA. A meal will follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Shenandoah District Church of the Brethren, Disaster Ministries, P.O. Box 67, Weyers Cave, VA 24486.

Online condolences may be left at valleyfs.com

Arrangements are in the care of Heishman Funeral Home, Inc., Heishman Funeral Service branch, Woodstock.