Dana Neil Conkin

Dana Conkin passed away peacefully on Sunday evening, April 12, at the age of 84. He was the beloved son of Neil and Vada Conkin, both of whom preceded him in death, and the devoted husband of Judy Conkin, who also recently preceded him. Dana and Judy shared over 30 years of a loving and happy marriage.

He is survived by his sister, Nancy Nelms and her husband Wallace; his nephew, Anthony (“Tony”) Grills and his wife Sandi; and his great-nephews, Caleb Grills and his wife Michaela, and Riley Grills.

Dana was a proud graduate of Sullivan West High School and East Tennessee State University (ETSU). He honorably served his country in the U.S. Army and went on to work for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers until his retirement. Known affectionately as “Conk” or “Duck” to his family and friends, Dana built many lasting friendships throughout his life. He enjoyed playing softball for Paul Bellamy Furniture and Acme Sports, where he shared countless memories with teammates and friends. Even after retirement, he remained active, continuing to play basketball with various teams. Dana was an avid University of Tennessee football fan and a devoted NASCAR enthusiast, attending more games and races than could ever be counted. He never met a stranger and was known for his kind and gentle spirit, always having something positive to say about everyone he met. Dana had no children of his own, but he held a special and meaningful role in the lives of those closest to him. He shared a particularly strong bond with his nephew, Anthony (“Tony”) Grills, whom he loved as a son and who looked up to Dana as a guiding presence throughout his life. Dana also cherished his great-nephews, Caleb Grills and Riley Grills, loving them as a grandfather would and taking great pride in their lives. He was many things to many people but as an uncle, he was what all uncles should hope to be. Dana brought laughter and joy to everyone around him and was deeply loved by his family and friends and will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, April 16, 2026 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Home, Kingsport. Funeral services will be conducted at 7:00 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Pastor Dan Dolen officiating.

Graveside services will be held on Friday, April 17, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Mountain Home National Cemetery.