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Conner Caldwell Obituary
October 13, 2024
KINGSPORT - Conner Caldwell, devoted husband, fire chief and lifelong servant of the Kingsport community passed away peacefully on October 13, 2024, at the age of 89.
Born and raised in the Fudges Chapel, Conner was a man of integrity. Known for his unwavering dedication to the safety and wellbeing of his neighbors. He proudly served as Fire Chief of Kingsport for 17 years during his 36-year career. During which time he led his team with courage, compassion, and unrelenting commitment to protecting the community he loved. His leadership was marked by his deep sense of duty. Whether on the front lines of emergency calls or working tirelessly behind the scenes to implement new innovations within the department.
Additionally, he served actively in the Tennessee Fire Service and served as President of the Tennessee Farmers Association, the Tennessee Fire Safety Inspections Association, and the Tennessee Fire Chiefs Association. He also served on the Board of Directors for the Kingsport Emergency Communication District and the Kingsport Life Saving Crew.
Conner was a devoted husband to his wife of over 40 years, Joyce Fleenor Caldwell, who precedes him. He was also preceded in death by sister, Bea Winstead and brothers Lester and Jerry Caldwell.
Conner is survived by daughter Dianna Bridwell and husband Steve, stepdaughter Diane McKamey Godwin and husband Jerry and stepson Jeff McKamey and wife Paula. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren Lindsey Lettich and husband Greg, Haley Owens, Meghan McKamey and Andrew McKamey and wife Shley, Hannah Godwin, and Taylor Godwin. He is also survived by great-grandchildren Cooper Owens, Olivia, and Emma McKamey.
Services will be conducted by Pastors Collin Adams and Kenneth Calvert at Waverly Road Presbyterian Church on Thursday, October 17th. The family will receive friends at the church from 10-11am, the funeral will follow. Graveside services will be held at East Lawn Cemetery directly following the funeral service.
The Kingsport Fire Department Honor Guard will serve as the pallbearers and conduct an honors ceremony.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Conner Caldwell
6 Entries
Steve H
October 17, 2024
There is not enough room in this little box to express all the positive things that Chief Caldwell did for the community. He was an individual of intense integrity that not only looked out fore the fire department that he managed, but for the interests of the City of Kingsport as well. He taught me a lot over the years in the many conversations I had with him at the Fleet Department. His lessons and input were greatly appreciated. He will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with the family for their tremendous loss.
Tom & Cindy Salyer
October 16, 2024
Sending prayers to Conner´s family. He was a wonderful person and great friend to us for more than 40 years. We will always remember him with love and so many great memories.
Kevin Caldwell
October 15, 2024
Sending prayers to family. Dianna, I am so sorry for your loss. Connor was an amazing person. A man of great faith and simply a pillar in the community. Uncle Connor will truly be missed and I loved and respected him dearly. It is a sad occasion and at the same time I am so happy that he is home with Joyce and his siblings. I know they are eating a buffet with Dad and catching up. Good Bless and many prayers. RIP Uncle Connor!!! Lots of Love!!!
Gary Maiden
October 15, 2024
Prayers for all. I enjoyed being with Conner at our chief meetings during my career at the Bristol Tn. Fire department.
Gary Maiden
Deputy Chief, Retired
Marcia
October 15, 2024
I know Conner belonged to TN, but we claim him here in NC too. He was an integral part of our little mountain community, Laurel Mountain for many years and I am proud to call him a good friend. We had some good times on the mountain. Rest in peace dear friend and give Joyce a hug from Wayne and Marcia
Kingsport Mayor
October 15, 2024
Kingsport has lost a very special person. Conner was loved and respected by everyone. No one has served the city with more dedication and compassion. He will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. RIP.
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