Michael Dwayne Conner, lovingly known to many as “Red,” passed away on October 3, 2026, at the age of 43. He was born on April 4, 1983, to his mother, Brenda Conner, and his father, Donnie Garrett.
Michael was truly one of a kind. There was nobody quite like him, and there never will be. He had a way of making people feel like family, no matter where he met them. Michael never met a stranger and could sit down with just about anyone and carry on a conversation as though they had known each other for years. If you knew Michael, chances are you were called “Boss” or “Boss Lady.” It was one of those little things about him that brought a smile and will be remembered fondly by those who loved him.
Michael loved to piddle. He enjoyed tinkering, fixing things, taking things apart, putting them back together, and figuring out how to make things work. He was a true Jack of all trades, and there was always something he could find to work on. Whether it was a big project or something small that simply needed a little attention, Michael was happiest when he was busy with his hands.
But what truly set Michael apart was his heart. He was always willing to help someone. If you needed him, he was there. He gave his time, his knowledge, and his helping hands without expecting anything in return. Whether you were family, a friend, or someone he had just met, Michael had a way of making you feel that you mattered. Helping people was simply part of who he was.
Those who knew and loved Michael will remember his conversations, his sense of humor, his willingness to help, and all the little things that made him uniquely himself. They will remember being called “Boss” or “Boss Lady,” watching him piddle with whatever caught his attention, and knowing that if something needed to be fixed or someone needed a hand, Michael would do his best to help.
Michael leaves behind his mother, Brenda (Lynn) Conner; his beloved aunt and uncle, Pam and Ray Brown, who lovingly raised him as their own; and his cousins, Pamela (Cody)Woods, Kristy (Keaton) Austin, Justin(Kara) Brown, Trevor Brown, William Conner, Robin Conner, and Clara Conner, whom he loved not simply as cousins, but as siblings.
He also leaves behind a host of children whom he loved dearly and considered his nieces and nephews, along with countless family members and friends whose lives were made better simply by knowing him.
Michael was preceded in death by his father, Donnie Garrett; his beloved grandparents, Dolly and EJ Conner, who played such an important role in his life; and his uncles, Keith Conner, Donnie Conner, and Wayne Conner.
Michael’s passing leaves a space that cannot be filled. But the love he gave so freely will remain in the hearts of those who knew him. His family will carry his memory in the stories they share, the laughter he brought into their lives, and in every helping hand extended to someone in need.
There will never be another Michael. There will never be another “Red.” He was deeply loved, he will be deeply missed, and he will remain a part of the people who loved him for all the days to come.
Visitation will be held on Friday, October 9, 2026, from 11:00 am until 1:00pm. Funeral Service at 1:00pm. At Walnut Grove Freewill Baptist Church. With minister Ray Brown and Ron Stricklin officiating.
