Billy H Conn, PhD

Billy H. Conn, PhD passed away peacefully at the age of 98 on August 28th, 2024, in Tucson, Arizona. He was married for 55 years to the love of his life, Mary Jane. Their serendipitous meeting on the shore of Lake Michigan, due to unexpected changes in their weekend plans, marked the beginning of a beautiful journey together filled with family and fortuitous blessings. He’s now with her again and forever.

Billy’s top priorities were his family, career, and athletics. Throughout his life, he built and sold 9 homes, flipping them as his family grew and he moved from Michigan to Arizona in 1977. He was always willing to help others and was an honorable WWII Navy Veteran, having left Pilot school due to an injury.

He had a passion for euchre, cribbage and bridge, and enjoyed tennis, basketball, skiing, swimming and adventurous travel. He was also an avid sports fan, especially of MSU and UofA college football and basketball games.

Billy earned a BA, MA, and PhD from Michigan State University and began his career as a Teacher and Coach. He later served as an Athletic Director, Principal and Deputy Superintendent at various Catholic and public schools throughout his career, as well as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Arizona. 

Prior to retirement, Billy founded a business selling accounting software to Public and Indian reservation school systems in Arizona as he foresaw personal computers entering the mainstream in the mid-80s.

Billy had a significant impact on many people and students throughout his life. He enjoyed tutoring others, especially students struggling to grasp mathematics or learning the skills to compete in sports.

He is survived by his children Michael, Deborah, Steve, and David; grandchildren Christopher, Laura, Auggie, and Ava; great grandchildren Ayla and Merrick; and extended family Larry, Kristen and Matthew.

In lieu of any gifts, please spend time with the people you love and live life well. 

Tempus fugit.