Earl Conklin Jr., born September 28, 1957, to Edith (Cross) Breakey and Earl Conklin Sr., passed away surrounded by the reflections and memories of a life lived in his own way on May 22, 2026.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edith and Earl Sr.; his sister, Vonnie Sue; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins. He is survived by his daughter and longtime caregiver, Toni Heininger; his son, Jonathan Conklin; his grandsons, Alexander (Katy) Heininger, Matthew Heininger, and Derick Koen; his brother, John Marinello; and many family members and friends who were with him for a reason or a season he remembered fondly throughout his life.

At one time, he found peace in hunting, fishing, and quiet moments outdoors. He loved the music of Randy Travis and Elvis Presley. Nothing brought him greater pride than his grandchildren. He loved sharing stories of Alex and Matthew’s football accomplishments and proudly boasting that no one could outrun Derick.

His life was not without hardship or complexity, but in the end, he reflected often on family, life, and the passage of time. Those who knew him will remember both his strengths and his struggles that made him the man that he was.

He asked that we remember: 

“Death is not the greatest loss in life. The greatest loss is what dies inside us while we live.”

Cremation and services will be held privately at the family’s request.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Brighton Football Booster Club, 2604 Elmwood Ave, Suite 231, Rochester, NY 14618-2213, to support opportunities for young athletes and continue the legacy he believed his grandsons left behind.