Mickey "Whit" Whitfield Connor, Jr.

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Mickey Whitfield "Whit" Connor Jr. on September 20th, 2024. A devoted husband, father, son, and friend to everyone. Whit’s life was a testament to love, kindness, good humor and joy, and his presence will be deeply missed. He leaves behind a legacy of warmth, laughter, and unwavering love for his family & friends. 

Whit is survived by his devoted wife, Martha “Marti” Cheek Connor, their cherished daughter, Lyra Blair Connor, and their unborn child, Baby Connor, whom he eagerly anticipated welcoming into the world. His loyal dog, Clark, was a constant companion, and Whit shared a special bond with his goddaughter, Mackenzie Keel. 

 He is survived by his mother, Sylvia Slater Connor, and his father, Mickey Whitfield Connor Sr. who raised Whit to be the thoughtful, compassionate, good-hearted man he was. He is survived by his grandmother, Mary Phillips Slater, along with his aunts and uncles, Bryan & Teri Connor, Karen & Timmy Dixon and Annette & Evans Pridgen. 

 Whit is survived by the family of his beloved wife, Father-in-law William Boyce Cheek Sr and his wife Laura Dixon Cheek, Mother-in-law Allison Knox Devechio and husband John Michael Devechio Sr and brother-in-law William Boyce Cheek Jr and spouse Lauren Kayla Cheek. 

 Whit’s love for his family extended beyond those who remain with us. He is now reunited in heaven with his dogs, Buddy and Max, as well as his grandparents, Edward & Jean Taylor, and his grandfather, John C. Slater. He also joins Terry Lee Watson, a dear family friend, co-worker and a mentor to Whit. The thought of Whit joining them brings comfort in this time of sorrow. 

His compassion and love will be cherished by his cousins, extended family and all his friends, new and old. 

Whit was not just a family man, but someone who lived life to the fullest, finding joy in the simple pleasures. He was an avid supporter of the Carolina Tar Heels, cheering them on with passion at every game. Date nights with his wife and daughter were some of his happiest moments, where he savored time spent with the two people he loved most. He loved fishing trips with his father and friends, finding peace and camaraderie by the water. Whit was the kind of man who appreciated the little things, like sharing a cold beer with his buddies, surrounded by laughter and good stories. His easygoing spirit and love for life made him a friend to everyone, and he always saw the good in those around him. And for Whit, few things were better than a day spent playing golf with his buddies, enjoying the competition, camaraderie, and, of course, the cold beer that followed each round. Golf was more than just a game for Whit—it was a way to connect with his friends, unwind, and embrace life’s joys.

 Whit was known for his bright spirit, a keen sense of humor, and a heart full of love. He lived life with a sense of joy that radiated to everyone around him. Whether spending time with family, sharing stories about the goodness in people, or cherishing the moments when he became a father, Whit’s presence was a gift to all who knew him. 

 A service to honor Whit’s life will be held on Tuesday the 24th of September at 2:00 PM at Grace Fellowship Church - 327 Academy Heights Rd, Kinston, NC 28504, where family and friends will gather to honor the beautiful legacy he leaves behind. In honor of Whits passion for the Carolina Tarheels, we kindly ask that you wear Carolina Blue and "keep it casual" as he would have wanted it, to show your love and support for Whit as we honor him. 

Visitation to follow with family. In lieu of flowers, consider making a contribution to the “Connor Family Trust”, to support the lives of Lyra Blair Connor and unborn baby Connor, reflecting Whit’s generous and giving nature. Memorials can be mailed to Marti’s brother William Cheek at 5405 Kaplan Drive, Raleigh NC 27606. Checks can be made out to “Connor Family Trust” - please include your contact info with your contribution. 

While our hearts are heavy with his passing, we take solace in knowing that Whit is watching over us from above. His light will continue to shine in the lives of those he touched. 

Rest peacefully, Whit—we will carry your memory with us always.