Priscilla Conner

NORRIDGEWOCK –
Priscilla was born on July 6, 1941 and passed away on June 18, 2025 at the age of 83.

Celebrating a Life of Dedication and Inspiration. It is with profound sadness and deep gratitude for a life beautifully lived that we announce the passing of Priscilla Conner—a beacon of dedication, compassion, and transformative impact in her community as an educator, inspirational colleague, and cherished family member.

Priscilla’s journey was defined by unwavering commitment and kindness. From her early years, she demonstrated a passion for education and self-betterment, working diligently to pay her own way through college by waiting tables during summers. As a high school student council member, she began to exhibit the leadership qualities that would come to define her professional legacy.

After earning her Bachelor’s degree from Husson University, Priscilla began her career at the University of Maine at Farmington in Public Information. Her desire to make a meaningful difference soon drew her to Mt. Blue High School in Farmington, where she devoted more than fifty years to teaching Business Education. Her career was marked by innovation and excellence, highlighted by being named “Business Educator of the Year” for the state of Maine in the 1990-1991 academic year.

Together with her colleague Bonita Tompkins, Priscilla co-founded The Center for Entrepreneurial Studies, a program that continues to honor her vision. Before she passed Bonnita surprised Priscilla informing her that a part of the center will bear her name; The Priscilla Conner Center for Leadership and Business and an “Honor Wall” for transformational educators, with Priscilla’s name at its foundation keeping her name and legacy active in the lives of youth.

Among her many educational contributions, she pioneered the “bank teller training program” in partnership with Franklin Savings Bank, giving Mt. Blue students invaluable real-world experience. She also organized “student of the month” assemblies and teacher retirement celebrations, fostering a culture of recognition and community.

Her innovative spirit extended beyond the classroom with the creation of APEX, a simulated office for an international paper company, which drew the attention of educators from across Maine including Bernard Conner from Skowhegan High School. Their meeting blossomed into a swift and enduring romance, culminating in marriage just months later. Bernard’s persistence, warmth, and even a six-pack of beer (despite Priscilla not being a drinker) won her heart, and together they shared forty-four years of love and partnership.

Priscilla is survived by her sons Steven Christmas and Brad Conner, Brad’s husband Gustavo Brenes; and her beloved cat, Darling. She leaves behind devoted friends, neighbors and colleagues, including Vicki Abbott, Alan Obert, and long-time teaching partner Jeanne Simpson, as well as an extended family and generations of students and friends who were forever changed by her presence.

A funeral service with reception after to honor Priscilla’s remarkable life with reception will be held on Monday, June 30 at 11 a.m. at Skowhegan Federated Church. Visitation will take place Sunday, June 29 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Somerset Family Remembrance Center in Skowhegan, where floral tributes may be sent.

Priscilla’s legacy is one of transformation, inspiration, and an unwavering devotion to the betterment of others. Her light will continue to shine in the countless lives she touched. May she rest in peace, her memory treasured always.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Somerset Animal Shelter, the American Cancer Society, or the National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation.