Robert "Bob" Conner

Robert "Bob" Conner, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on April 16, 2026, at Courtland Terrace Assisted Living in Gastonia, North Carolina. Born on June 11, 1932, in Rutherford County, North Carolina, Bob's life was marked by unwavering dedication to his family, faith, and community.

Bob was a proud veteran who served honorably in the U.S. Army, a testament to his deep sense of duty and patriotism. Following his military service, he devoted his career to Gibson Machine in Dallas and Consolidated Engravers in Charlotte, where he held the position of Division Head. His professional accomplishments were a source of pride, but above all, his most treasured achievements were the love and successes of his children and grandchildren. Described by his children as loving, strong, full of wisdom and the best Dad ever, they grew up thinking he could fix anything, more often than not, he in fact did.

A man of great warmth and spirit, Bob was known for his fun-loving nature. He was a devoted member of Ridge Baptist Church, where he contributed actively for many years, nurturing the bonds of faith that sustained him throughout his life. Those fortunate to know him remember a man who found joy in spending quality time with his family and who enriched the lives of everyone around him.

Bob's life was rooted in strong family ties. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 62 years, Helen Cunningham Conner, and their son, Robbie Conner. He also mourns the loss of his parents, William and Ethel Patterson Conner, and his siblings: Bill, Jimmy, Ervin, Bessie, and Willie "Sis" Parker.

He leaves behind a devoted family who will forever cherish his memory. His son, Tim Conner and wife Alisa; daughters, Angela Conner Saunders and husband Tim, and Christy Conner Davidson and husband Jay; grandchildren, Ryan Conner, Melissa Conner Long and husband David, Matt Saunders and wife Allie, Somer Saunders Castle and husband Paul, Dylan Davidson, Trevor Davidson, Henry Conner and Maddie Conner; as well as great-grandchildren Sarah Kate, Carson, Brentley, Zoey, Jason, Taytum, William and Allison. His family grew over the last couple years to include Sophia Hall and Jennifer Johnson, devoted caregivers and more recently the team at Courtland Terrace.

The Family will receive friends for a visitation on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Withers & Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation, located at 2916 Union Road, Gastonia, NC 28054. A Celebration of Life will follow on April 22, 2026, beginning at 1:00 p.m. at Ridge Baptist Church with Pastor Todd Terry officiating, 3818 Old York Road, Gastonia, NC 28056. A private burial will follow at Gaston Memorial Park, Garden of Time section, 1200 South New Hope Road, Gastonia with the Gaston County Honor Guard Honors. Pallbearers will be Matt Saunders, Dylan Davidson, Trevor Davidson, Paul Castle, Ryan Conner and David Long

Memorials may be made to Ridge Baptist Church Care Team, 3818 Old York Road, Gastonia, NC 28056

Bob Conner's passing leaves an indelible mark on all who knew him. Surrounded by family and his Courtland Terrace family at the time of his death, his spirit of kindness, dedication, and joy will be remembered and honored by many. His legacy of love, service, and devotion remains a guiding light to those who loved him.

Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia, NC (704) 864-5144 is serving the family.

Online condolences may be made at: www.withersandwhisenantfuneral.com