Donald H. Conroy Jr.

Donald H. Conroy Jr., born January 10, 1948, in Buffalo, NY, to Donald Sr. and Genevieve (Bezusko) Conroy, lived a life filled with love, service, creativity, and devotion to family. He attended Hutch Tech, where he also met his future wife, Elizabeth “Betty” Miller, while working at Decco’s restaurant. They welcomed their first child, Dawn Marie, that July 1966 and were married shortly after — beginning nearly six decades of life together.

Don worked at Fedders sheet metal before volunteering for the draft in 1968. He served in Vietnam with the 101st Airborne and was briefly MIA during the battle of Hamburger Hill, returning home with the smile that lit up every room. Over a 25-year Army career, he also served in Korea, Germany, Fort Hood, Fort Bliss, and Elizabethtown, PA — often bringing his family along and being deeply involved in their lives through Scouts, sports, and community events.

Together, he and Betty raised four children: Dawn, Donald “Sonny,” Jason, and Joseph. In 1980, they settled permanently in El Paso, TX, where Don built their forever home. Though Uncle Sam later called him back to Germany, Don eventually retired from the Army in 1993, known for his precision, integrity, and unmatched handyman skills.

After retiring, Don pursued his passion for art, earning degrees from EPCC and UTEP, where he graduated with honors. He taught art at Nolan Richardson Middle School for 20 years, where he also coached track and football. Don’s creativity knew no bounds — from murals and airbrushed motorcycles to saw paintings and five-foot wedding cakes. His art was even featured at the Cesar Chavez Museum.

A motorcycle enthusiast, Don joined Rolling Thunder with his sons and granddaughter, sharing bike runs and camaraderie. Later, he helped establish Rolling Thunder Texas 1 and secure its home at Grace Lutheran Church.

Above all, Don was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He adored Betty, always making sure she felt loved and cherished. He faced every challenge, including his final battle with cancer, with strength and optimism — always saying, “I’m good.”

Don passed away on October 13, 2025. He will be remembered for his big smile, generous heart, and artistic soul. His presence will be deeply missed, but his love and legacy live on.

Don is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 59 years Elizabeth (Betty), his daughter Dawn Marie (Big Dawn), son Jason Warren and wife Dawn (Little Dawn), son Joseph Alan, daughter-in-law Elizabeth (Libby), sister Diane and husband Ricky Wojtowicz, his favorite sister Jacquelyn (Jackie Miller), sister-in-law Elsie and Ray Swarthout, sister-in-law Nancy Miller, brother-in-law Warren and Ginger Miller, Sister-in-law Barbara. Grandchildren Jayson Dean, Kassandra Lee (husband Edgar), Christopher D (wife Emma), Gabrielle (Gabby) and Katherine (Kat). Great grandchildren Bella Lou, Madison, and Felix. And many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. Fur Baby Gizmo.

Preceded in death parents Donald and Genevieve, twin brother Ronald (Ronny), son Donald (Sonny), grandsons Christopher Joseph and Jared Joseph, brother-in-law Carl (Skip).

Gone But Never Forgotten