William Joseph Conner

William Joseph Conner, a longtime educator with Lawrence Township Schools, passed away on April 4, 2022 at Community North Hospital.

Bill was born to Alma Odetta (Withers) and William P. Conner in Brazil, Indiana, on March 7, 1938. He is survived by his wife of 57 years Carol (Parker); his three children, Anne Uberta (Brent), William Patrick (Sandi), and Kara Trimmer (Matt). Bill adored his six grandchildren: Kennedy, Kirsten, Jacob, Dylan, Haley, and Mackinley Anne and two step-grandsons, Michael and Josh.

Bill graduated from Brazil High School and received undergraduate and graduate degrees at Indiana State University and Butler University. While at Indiana State he was a member of the tennis and swimming teams. He was also a commissioned officer with the Indiana National Guard for six years.

In 1964, he joined the faculty of Belzer Junior High School as a social studies teacher and wrestling coach. After six years of teaching and coaching, he moved on to become the assistant principal. After three years as assistant principal, he was named principal, a job he held for ten years. In 1983, he was appointed to the newly created position of personnel director for Lawrence Township Schools, a position that he held until his retirement in 1996.

Bill had always enjoyed fishing since his childhood, but after retiring he had time to renew his interest in tennis. With the Indianapolis Racquet Club, he traveled on several senior tennis teams to complete in National Tennis Championships in Arizona and California. These experiences were one of the highlights of his retirement. Another highlight of his retirement was his travels with his wife and friends.

He always felt family was first in his life, and he wanted his children to remain close. Bill always hoped he would be remembered as a kind, caring, and loving man.

Calling will be held on Thursday, April 14, 2022 from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at Flanner Buchanan – Oaklawn Memorial Gardens (Conner Suite), (9700 Allisonville Road, Indianapolis 46250).  A celebration of Bill’s life will immediately follow at 11:00 a.m.  A private graveside service will be held later the same day at Stilesville Cemetery in Stilesville, IN.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial contribution to the Lawrence Township School Foundation or the American Lung Association.