Edward M Conklin

Edward M. Conklin

Port Jervis, NY

Mr. Edward M. Conklin of Port Jervis, NY, passed away on Sunday, January 18, 2026 at Memorial Sloan Kettering Hospital surrounded by the love of his devoted wife, Caryl. He was 70.

Edward was born on February 7, 1955 in Suffern, NY, the son of the late Harvey J. Conklin and the late Lillian M. Trainor Conklin.

Ed met the love of his life, Caryl, while they were still in school. She was just 16 when they became childhood sweethearts, beginning a love story that lasted a lifetime. They were married on October 9, 1977, and shared 48 beautiful years together. Together, they raised three children and built both a family and a business, Conklin Decorators, through hard work and dedication.

Ed graduated from Nanuet High School in 1974, where he excelled in both football and wrestling. From there, Ed built his career with brush in hand, growing Conklin Decorators into a respected business through his craftsmanship and attention to detail. Ed was an honest man who ran his business with integrity and pride, earning the trust and respect of everyone he worked with and for.

A tireless worker, Ed was never one to sit idle. When he wasn't working or going on estimates, Ed enjoyed spending time at home with his family. Cooking came naturally to him; he could grill a steak to perfection and was also a talented baker. Ed was truly a "jack of all trades." He was especially known for his quick, efficient ironing-so much so that he proudly taught his children his techniques. But more importantly, Ed was a wonderful father, Pop-Pop, friend, and neighbor. His love and loyalty were unconditional.

When he did slow down, Ed enjoyed fishing, particularly his cherished weekend trips with the "Four Amigos." As a lifelong sports fan, he could often be found in his recliner cheering on the New York Yankees and the New York Jets.

Ed had a rare gift for connecting with people, effortlessly turning strangers into friends with his quick wit and warm smile. He had an incredible sense of humor, told the best jokes, and his infectious laugh and positive energy could light up any room. Ed loved to dance and had some impressive moves, and he will always be remembered for his signature handlebar mustache.

Above all, Ed was a devoted husband, loving father, cherished Pop-Pop, and loyal friend whose presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Surviving are: his loving wife of 48 years, Caryl Conklin; his three beloved children, James Conklin and his companion Cierra Coolidge, Justin Conklin and his wife Danielle, and Caitlyn Gunderman and her husband Jason; his grandchildren, Miles Gunderman and Declan Conklin; his sister, Kathleen Kushner and her husband Bruce; also several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his brother, Richard Conklin and his sister-in-law, Donna Conklin.

Family and friends are invited to visit at the Gray-Parker Funeral Home, Inc., 100 E. Main St., Port Jervis, NY 12771 on Friday, January 23, 2026 from 10:00am -12:00pm. A funeral service will follow at 12:00pm at the funeral home with Pastor Amy Garrett officiating.

Cremation was held at MacLennan Hall Crematorium, Milford, PA.

Funeral arrangements are by the GRAY-PARKER FUNERAL HOME, 100 E. Main St., Port Jervis. For additiona

information, directions or to send a condolence note to the family please visit www.grayparkerfuneralhome.com.