Kayon Cortez Conner, known lovingly by family and friends as "Big Daddy," passed away on May 21, 2026, at the age of 52, at his home in Hiram, Georgia, after a courageous battle with colon cancer. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and an undeniable heart of gold that touched everyone fortunate enough to cross his path.
Born on January 25, 1974, in Atlanta, Georgia, to the late Mary Francis Conner and the late Jeff Conner Sr., Kayon grew up surrounded by a large, close-knit family that shaped the man he would become. From an early age, he carried a quiet confidence and an easygoing spirit that drew people to him naturally. He was never in a rush to do anything, except when it came to caring for the people he loved, and that sense of purpose guided him throughout his entire life.
Kayon built a life defined by hard work, vision, and determination. As a successful entrepreneur, he approached every endeavor with integrity and a deep commitment to excellence, creating opportunities not only for himself but for those around him. His leadership was steady and genuine, rooted in the same kindness and humility that characterized everything he did.
Yet for all his professional accomplishments, Kayon's greatest pride was always his family. He was a devoted husband to Keisha Johnson Conner, cherishing their partnership and building a life grounded in love, loyalty, and unwavering support. As a father to Nicholas Rashad Conner and Ashley Monique Conner, he provided guidance, wisdom, and encouragement with a gentle hand and he was quick wit it. When his twin grandsons, Koby Rod Julian and Kody Kay Julian, came along, they became the absolute center of his world. Whether he was sneaker shopping for matching kicks with the boys, riding his old school car on the weekends, or watching NASCAR, Kayon found joy in the simple, beautiful moments of life.
Those who knew him will remember his legendary shoe game, his effortless humor, and how truly unbothered he was by the noise of the world. He never worried about things he could not control and never purposely intended to hurt anyone's feelings. He really was "that guy," the one everyone loved and appreciated. Kayon was also a proud member of "The Counsel," a brotherhood of men who fellowshipped through travel, holiday gatherings, birthday celebrations, and sporting events. That bond meant the world to him.
In addition to his loving wife of 23 years, children, and grandsons, Kayon is survived by his sister, Shirley Riggins (Harvey Riggins); brothers, Jeff Conner Jr. (Willie Mae Conner); Emma Mallard (James Mallard); Michael Conner (Angelique Conner); Donna Sampleton (Paul Sampleton) and Robert Conner (Melvette Dickerson) along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family and dear friends who will carry his memory forward.
Kayon deeply appreciated and was appreciated by long time business owners, Richard "Ricky" Render and Kristie Render. Through the partnership with the Renders, Kayon was able to become a great and trusted entrepreneur in the freight industry.
Kayon placed his faith in God and trusted that his life was guided by purpose and grace. He now rests peacefully in the arms of his Heavenly Father, reunited with his beloved parents.
Kayon's own words serve as the most fitting tribute and the charge he leaves for those who love him: "Don't block your blessings, stay with your family and stick with your family."
Processional......................................................................................................Clergy, Family & Friends
Selection................................. “Goodness of God” by CeCe Winans........................Jasmine Conner
Scripture Readings Old Testament..............................................................................................Pastor L.J. Character New Testament..................................................................................................................Minister
Prayer.......................................................................................................................
Musical Selection............................. “Well Done” by Deitrick Haddon.................. Zenita Stripling
Remarks (2 Minutes Please)............................................................................................................ Family and Friends
Obituary (Read Silently) .................................................................................................... ...Soft
Musical Selection
Eulogy................................................................................................................Pastor Lonnie J. Character Saints of Christ Ministries Atlanta, Georgia
Acknowledgments...............................................................................................Keisha Johnson Conner Willie A. Watkins Staff
Recessional
Postlude
Crestview Cemetery
2000 Marietta Boulevard NW Atlanta, Georgia 30318
REPAST
PALLBEARERS
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The family gratefully acknowledges with sincere appreciation, the kindness of everyone for the expressions of sympathy, your prayers, support, love, flowers and food, so graciously extended. We have been strengthened by your kind words and expressions of love. May God richly bless each and everyone of you.
The Family
WILLIE A. WATKINS FUNERAL HOME
Carrollton Chapel 602 Newnan Road | Carrollton, Georgia 30117
770-836-0044
Darrell E. Watkins, I., Licensed Funeral Director www.williewatkins.com
The K Effect, Print & Design, 678-732-5937