Earnest Carl Conley

Chief Master Sergeant Earnest Carl Conley, USAF (Retired) (1943-2023)

CMSGT Earnest Conley, USAF (Ret), age 80, passed away on Sunday, November 26, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. He was born in Wyoming County, West Virginia, in the community of Hanover to Talt and Ada Conley.

Earnest was a devoted husband and father. He was a resolute and proud individual who always stood up for what he believed.

He was preceded in death by his parents and sister Brenda Aldrich. Earnest is survived by his wife, Karen S. Conley; sister, Beverly Laney; daughter, Shaness L. Giesa (Thomas); son, Robert T. Conley (Laura); and granddaughters, Brooke E. Conley and Madelyn G. Conley.

Earnest married his wife of 53 years on August 15, 1970. She remained by his side throughout his life as a loving wife.

Earnest was proud of his children, and enamored by his granddaughters. He thoroughly enjoyed every visit with them, and never hesitated to share how delighted he was to watch them grow up and share their talents. He especially enjoyed listening to his granddaughter Brooke play the violin, and play games such as rummy and cribbage with his granddaughter Maddie.

Earnest enlisted in the United States Air Force in August 1961, and obtained the rank of Chief Master Sergeant in 1984. While in the military, he obtained a Bachelor’s of Science degree from the European Division of the University of Maryland. He served honorably for 28 years, retiring highly decorated in 1989. His military career afforded both he and his family the opportunity to travel extensively throughout the United States and Europe.

As an avid golfer during his life, he had the opportunity to play some of the most hallowed courses in the world while stationed in Europe, including St. Andrews and Muirfield. He continued his love of the game during his retirement years.

Services will be held Wednesday, December 13, 2023 at 10:00 AM at Daniels Family Funeral Service, followed by a private family committal service at Sandia Memory Gardens Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Lung Association.