Conley Whitfield Sr.

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." 2 Timothy 4:7 Conley Whitfield Sr., a devoted father, brother, grandfather, and trailblazing professional, passed away peacefully on July 7, 2025. He was born on September 6, 1947, a proud native son of Pottstown, Pennsylvania, to the late Solomon Whitfield Sr. and Hazel Whitfield (née Size). Raised alongside his four siblings-Dorothy (deceased), Benny (deceased), Solomon Jr., and Clarence-Conley "Bubba" grew up in a household where hard work, perseverance, and a strong Christian faith were core values, instilled in him by his loving parents. Conley attended Pottstown area schools before earning his Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science, with a minor in Teaching, from Lincoln University in 1969. While at Lincoln, he was affectionately known as "Pecan Ali" and distinguished himself as a student-athlete on the baseball team, a skilled saxophonist, and a devoted brother of his beloved Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., where he crossed through the Beta Chapter in 1967 as part of the esteemed "Elite 8." He began his professional journey as an elementary school teacher in the Middletown, Connecticut where he was known for his hands-on approach to teaching, often visiting students and their families to support them beyond the classroom walls. Later, he relocated back to Pennsylvania and transitioned into the corporate sector, first as a salesman with Colgate, and then with Bell Telephone. During the Bell Telephone–AT&T divestiture, Conley shifted into finance, ultimately rising to the position of Chief Financial Officer for a product group at Lucent Technologies. His career at Lucent was marked by distinction and international experience, including several years living and working abroad in Swindon, United Kingdom. His ability to bridge people and business strategy earned him the respect of colleagues around the world. Though he was thrice married, Conley's greatest pride and enduring legacy are his two children, Conley Whitfield Jr. and Stephanie M. Whitfield. He raised them as a single father during their formative teenage years in Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania, showing unwavering dedication to their growth, education, and dreams. Whether cheering at Conley Jr.'s football games or applauding Stephanie's school performances, Conley was always a visible and vocal supporter. His commitment included commuting four hours a day after a promotion-just so his children could remain in a strong school district and continue pursuing excellence. His efforts bore fruit in their Ivy League education and careers: Conley Jr. earned his Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of Pennsylvania, where he also played varsity football and is currently a world class bassist. Stephanie earned her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Stanford University and later received her Juris Doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania. She practices consumer litigation in Los Angeles, California. Their achievements are a testament to the sacrifices, discipline, and encouragement their father provided throughout their lives. In his later years, Conley relocated from North Jersey and found joy in spending time with his beloved grandchildren-Christopher, Sydney, and Garrett. He remained actively connected with his Omega Psi Phi fraternity brothers and cherished staying in touch with his close friends and extended family. Conley Whitfield Sr. will be remembered for his intellect, humor, faith, and deep love for his family. He leaves behind a host of loved ones, friends, fraternity brothers, and colleagues who were touched by his generous spirit and purposeful life. Family and friends are invited to attend a viewing on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. at Houck & Gofus Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., 955 N. Charlotte St., Pottstown, PA 19464. A Life Celebration Service will follow at 10:30 a.m., with interment immediately after at Mount Zion Cemetery, 225 E. Schuylkill Rd., Pottstown, PA 19465. A repass will be held following the interment; details will be shared on the day of the service, and all are warmly welcome to join the family in fellowship and remembrance. For those unable to attend in person, a live webcast of Conley's services will be available beginning at 9:30 a.m. Please click here to view the webcast. If you have any questions, please call (610) 323-8220.