John Conway Obituary May 2, 2026 -Simsbury, CT
John Edward Conway, 74, of Simsbury, CT, passed away peacefully on May 2nd, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on September 21st, 1951, in West Hartford, CT, he was the son of the late James “Mervyn” and Bridget (Birmingham) Conway.
He earned his MBA from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and later his law degree from the University of Connecticut School of Law and was an entrepreneur throughout his life.
At the center of his world was his family. He shared 38 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Kathleen McGurkin. Together, they built a life grounded in love, partnership, and unwavering support. He had immense pride and joy in his children and grandchildren, and his love lives on through them. He is survived by his wife, Kathleen McGurkin of Simsbury, CT, his daughter, Kathleen Miller and her husband, Billy, of Marshfield, MA, his son, Brendan Conway and his wife, Annie, of Boston, MA, and his grandchildren, Madelyn and Ava Miller.
He is predeceased by his brother, James “Frank” Conway, brother-in-law, Lawrence McGurkin and nephew, Michael Conway.
John was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He will be remembered for his kindness, calm presence, and quiet way he always showed up for those he loved. He was passionate about coaching his children in sports, playing tennis, and watching UConn basketball. He was an avid reader and pool player. He cherished his Irish family roots and loved sharing memories of his childhood summers in Ireland working on his grandparents’ farm.
A memorial mass will be held on Saturday, May 16th, 2026, at 9 am at St. Mary’s, Simsbury, CT. A livestream will be available for those unable to attend. In a final act of generosity, John chose to donate his body to the UConn School of Medicine to support medical research and education. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of John Conway to the UConn Health – Wilmont Memorial Fund, mailed to UConn Health Anatomical Donation Program AM049 263 Farmington Ave MC1833 Farmington, CT 06030.
