Charles Thomas "Tom" Conley, a longtime Ashland businessman passed away October 6, 2023, at the Albert B. Chandler Hospital/UK Healthcare in Lexington, KY following a brief illness. He's operated Speedy Signs and Banners most recently but has had a business career spanning decades in this area.

Tom was born December 8th, 1948 in Paintsville KY, the only child of Clyde Conley and Darlene Murphy Conley. Tom enjoyed an idyllic childhood growing up nestled in a community full of family, spending his days adventuring the hills that surrounded his home. Tom was a gifted piano player where he excelled and was awarded a scholarship to Morehead State University where he eventually earned his Master's Degree in Music Performance. Tom served in the military where he performed in the National Guard Band.

Although a career in music was an option for Tom, he instead decided to step into the world of business where he excelled. Tom's ventures include everything from fast food to coal operations to being a piano teacher to eventually operating a sign shop. His business interests have included Morehead Foods, Inc., Big Creek Management Inc., Guyan Development International, Inc., Eve Coal Company, Blackheart Inc., Tom Conley Enterprises, Inc., and Speedy Signs and Banners. He has also taught piano at Queens College in Charlotte NC, and Marshall University as well as operating a piano studio in Ashland. He played piano at Grace United Methodist Church in Raceland KY.

Although Tom had an accomplished life, his proudest and happiest moments were spent with family. He adored everyone in his orbit. He is survived by his wife Joanna "Joni" Conley, of Ashland; son Eric Conley (Jessie) and grandsons Wyatt and Ollie Conley of Redmond WA; daughter Eve Conley Staude (Ron) and grandchildren Dylan and Luke of Catawba, NC; Josh Conley (Amanda) and grandchildren Grayson and Maggie of Troutman, NC. Tom was also dad to two step-daughters, Amanda James O'Bourke (Seth) and grandchildren Ayden Smith and Gavin O'Bourke of Ashland and Caity McNeely Barker (Cody), and grandchildren Mara and Joslyn Weaver and Cassidy Barker of Worthington, KY.

Tom lived a good life full of several chapters, making many friends along the way. He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather, businessman, musician, and mentor. Always quick with a corny joke, he was an all-around good guy who was loved enormously by family and friends. He will be missed tremendously.

There will be no service. In lieu of flowers or food, please make donations to Ashland Animal Rescue Foundation in Tom's name.