John M. Conatser, Sr.

John M. Conatser, Sr., began his journey in this circle of life on July 17, 1945, in Hustonville, Kentucky.  John was born the son of James “Jim” Conatser and Nora Edna Campbell Conatser.  He spent his childhood years in Hustonville, where he grew up and graduated from Hustonville High School.  After graduating, he volunteered his services and joined the U.S. Army on September 4, 1963, which he proudly served until August 26, 1966.  After coming home from the military, John worked in many fields as a supervisor, in many factories, and spent several years as a corrections officer.  In the 1980’s, through hard work, determination, and natural leadership, he became a respected asphalt supervisor for The Allen Company, known by many as “Papa John” to the road crew both young and old.  John always made sure his crew had lunch and drinks on a hard workday until his retirement in 2014.

On Monday, May 25, 2026, John completed his circle of life here on Earth and entered his heavenly home surrounded by the love of his family, reunited with those who had gone before him.

John was a quietly spiritual man, who had faith and trusted in his Lord & Savior Jesus Christ.  He truly enjoyed living life to the fullest, spreading joy and laughter wherever he went.  Whether he was sharing a good meal with family and friends, lending a helping hand, or enthusiastically rooting for his Kentucky Wildcats, his presence was a gift to everyone who knew him. 

He is survived by his loving sons, Johnny Conatser, Jr. (Kellie) of Danville, Kentucky, James Michael Conatser of Junction City, Kentucky, and Jordan Mitchell Conatser of Nicholasville, Kentucky; the love of his life, Anne Conatser of Nicholasville; seven grandchildren, Jessyca Ching (Leah), Nikki Floyd (Hunter), John Michael Conatser, Jeremiah Conatser, Lilly Smalley (D-shon), Autumn Conatser (Kat), and Holly Conatser; eight great-grandchildren, Norrie Ching, Hudson Floyd, Hayes Floyd, Freddie Conatser, Theo Conatser, Miles Conatser, Mia Smalley, and Daisy Smalley; special niece, Donna Atwood; special nephew, Glenn Atwood (Letisha); and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who mourn his passing.

John was preceded in death by his father, James “Jim” Conatser; mother, Nora Edna Campbell Gabbard; two brothers, Billy Conatser and Jerry Conatser; and two sisters, Louise Wilson and Shirley Atwood.

A Public Visitation will be held 10:30AM-12:30PM Thursday, June 4, 2026, at Fox & Friend Funeral Home.  A Public Celebration of Life Service will follow at 12:30PM Thursday, at the funeral home. 

Private burial, with Full Military Honors, will take place in Camp Nelson National Cemetery.

Fox & Friend Funeral Home, Stanford, Kentucky, is entrusted with John’s arrangements.  Guest Book at www.friendfuneralhomes.com.

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