James "Jack" Edward Conard Jr.'s Obituary
Cornelius lost one of its true local treasures the morning of June 2nd, 2026.
US Navy Veteran, former tennis and volleyball extraordinaire, and the unofficial official Town of Cornelius photographer and historian, James Conard, Jr., better known to all of us simply as Jack, has passed away at the age of 78.
Born in Mooresville to James E and Sarah Hall Conard, Jack attended Cornelius Elementary School before moving to South Charlotte and attended and graduated from South Mecklenburg High School. The family then returned to the Old Town Cornelius area.
Jack was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Kathy Eileen Conard, whom he loved and cherished dearly.
Jack enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1966, assigned to the USS Willis A. Lee and then served on the commissioning crew of the USS John F. Kennedy. He was honorably discharged in December 1969.
Jack’s contributions to our town are impossible to measure. Thankfully, these contributions did not go unnoticed by the Town of Cornelius as he was recently honored for a lifetime of service to the community.
Through his photography, stories, and incredible knowledge of local history, he helped preserve the memories and spirit of Cornelius for generations. Whether it was one of his legendary Virgo parties, his annual Christmas Parade gatherings, or simply a conversation at a local watering hole, Jack always had a story to tell and a camera close by.
Many of us will miss his photographs (many of which held his house together or are featured as part of the Conard Collection in the Cornelius Town Hall and will be featured in the new Cornelius History Museum), his conversations, his wisdom, and his unwavering love for this community. We will all miss sharing his favorite beverage, PBR and maybe with a shot of Jameson, with him while talking about just about anything under the sun—usually while he was snapping another picture.
Thank you, Jack, for all you gave to Cornelius and to the people fortunate enough to call you a friend. Your legacy will live on in the countless memories and images you’ve left behind.
Rest easy, Jack.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 20, 2026 from 11:30am - 4:00pm at the American Legion Post 86, 21215 Legion Street, Cornelius, NC 28031.
11:30am - Guest Arrival & Gathering. We kindly request that guests arrive by 11:30am and gather outside the Legion prior to start of the Military Honors Ceremony.
12:00pm - United States Navy Military Honors Ceremony.
Immediately follwing the Military Honors guests will be welcomed inside the hall to find seating, visit with friends and family, and share memories.
12:30pm - Memorial Remarks & Eulogy
1:00pm - Food & Fellowship
1:00 - 4:00pm - Live Music Tribute.
Dress Code Theme: "Just Jack". What does that mean? You tell us. We invite guests to wear something that reminds them of Jack or a special memory they shared with him. Whether it's a favorite color, a band t-shirt, a boating hat, a sports team, a tie-dye shirt, or simply something that makes you think of Jack.
For more deatils about the Celebration of Life please click HERE.
James Funeral Home is serving the family. Condolences and memories may be shared at https://www.JamesFuneralHomeLKN.com
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