Joseph L. “Joe” Conley – 62 – of 155 North Main St., Hornell, died Saturday afternoon (July 31, 2010) at Highland Health Care in Wellsville, where he had resided for the past 2 ½ months.

Born in Gorham, NY on November 13, 1947, he was the son of Melbourne & Olive (Fleishman) Conley.

Joe grew up in Pulteney, NY and attended school in Hammondsport.  He was a veteran of the US Army, serving his country in Vietnam where he was wounded in action and received 6 medals.  While in the Armed Forces, Joe also took several classes in stock control & accounting.

Throughout the years, he resided in several locations, including Hornell, Virginia & Florida.  While in Florida he was employed at Bridalwood Farms for several years.  He returned to Hornell about 12 years ago.

Joe was a past commander and active member of the Hornell VFW where he was employed as a bartender and ran most of the activities such as bingo, dinners & fundraisers.  He was also a member of the VFW Honor Guard.

Joe was an avid racing fan, especially NASCAR.  In his younger years, he enjoyed driving in demolition derby events.

He had been married to the former Diane McCaughey who died in 2001.  He was also preceded in death by 2 brothers, Clarence Conley & Gerrald Conley.

Joe was married to the former Shirley Sackett who survives.  Also surviving are 4 children, including Kimberly (Michael) Slawson of Wellsville and Joseph (Laurie) Conley of Olean; 2 brothers, David (Donna) Conley of Pulteney and Marvin Conley of Hornell; 4 grandchildren; several nieces & nephews.

At Joe’s request there will be no calling hours.   A Memorial Services will be held on Saturday (September 4, 2010) at 1:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY with Deacon Robert McCormick officiating.  A graveside service with military honors was held on August 9th, 2010 in Woodlawn Cemetery, Wellsville, NY

Joe’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to the Hornell VFW, Canisteo St., Hornell, NY 14843.