In Loving Memory of Charles "Chuck" Wilson Conner, Jr. August 6, 1945 - July 3, 2026 Celebration of Life 1st United Methodist Church, Maryville, Tennessee

Obituary

On July 3, 2026, Charles "Chuck" Wilson Conner, Jr. left this world and entered his Heavenly Campground. While his family and friends mourn his passing, they find comfort in the legacy of a life well lived and in the many memories he leaves behind.

Chuck was born in Knoxville, Tennessee, on August 6, 1945, to Charles Wilson Conner and Ida "Ijie" Reid Cox Conner. He graduated from West High School (Knoxville) and the University of Tennessee. Chuck owned a business in Maryville and was involved in woodworking throughout much of his professional life. The latter years of his life were in Rogersville, Tennessee, shared with his beloved second wife, Elaine Olinger. A true outdoorsman, Chuck loved spending time in nature. He hiked countless trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and enjoyed backpacking, canoeing, fishing, sailing, water skiing, RV camping, and exploring the outdoors. His favorite destination was Hunting Island, South Carolina, though some of his most treasured adventures were Scout canoe expeditions through the Quetico and Boundary Waters.

Chuck had a gift for building and creating. He could make almost anything out of wood, from fine furniture to imaginative projects, and was known for tackling challenges with creativity and determination. He was a member, and served on the board, of the Southern Highland Craft Guild and was always eager to share his knowledge, learn a new skill, or lend a helping hand. A lifelong learner and collector, Chuck enjoyed collecting baseball cards, coins, and knives.

Chuck was an Eagle Scout in his youth and later devoted many years as a Scout leader and mentor. After returning to Maryville in 2019 he continued serving others through Food Connection, The Welcome Table, and 1st United Methodist Church. Chuck was preceded in death by his parents, Wilson and "Ijie" Conner; his wife, Elaine Olinger; and his brother, William "Bill" Conner.

He is survived by his children, Chris Conner (Melissa), David Conner (Melissa), and stepdaughter Hazel Schifferle (Robert), grandchildren Reid, Eliza, and Jones Conner, and Graham and Gabe Schifferle, his companion Penny Hornsby, extended family, and dear friends.

Of all his accomplishments, Chuck was most proud of his children and grandchildren. Their successes brought him immense pride, and his love for them was constant and unwavering.

A celebration of life will be held at 1st United Methodist Church, 804 Montvale Station Rd, Maryville, Tennessee on Sunday November 15th at 2pm. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to The Welcome Table or Community Food Connection.