Melody Kay Conner

Melody Kay Conner

6/20/45 – 2/12/25

Melody K. Connor, a woman of boundless creativity, nurturing spirit, and unwavering dedication, was born on June 20th, 1945, in Ottumwa, Iowa, to Mabel Demetria Conner (née Oliver) and Wilford Dale (Pete) Connor. Raised alongside her siblings in Sigourney, Iowa, she graduated from high school in 1963. Melody went on to pursue higher education, earning a bachelor’s degree in secondary education with a focus on English and Speech, followed by a master’s in counseling from Northeast Missouri State University. Her career was a testament to her passion for teaching, the arts, and mentorship. As a young woman, she taught language arts at Trenton Junior College. A gifted actress, Melody graced the stage in numerous summer stock productions, showcasing her talent and love for performance.

She then worked for the Clay County Division of Family Services for a decade before returning to the classroom to inspire the next generation. From 1999 to 2009, she taught in Kansas City Schools, and each summer, she was a familiar face at the Kansas City Renaissance Faire, where she sold her lovingly crafted and painted clay figurines and ornaments—wizards, dragons, unicorns, and angels—each bearing a name of its own.

Melody spent most of her teaching career as the head of the Theater Department at Paseo Academy of Fine and Performing Arts, where she made a lasting impact on both her students and the arts community. A gifted performer and visionary arts educator, she produced, directed, and designed countless plays, each one celebrated for its excellence. Melody’s creative talents extended beyond the stage to include set design and costume creation, where she brought her artistic vision to life. She even formed a mime troupe and directed a mime troupe at Paseo - a unique and engaging way for students to express themselves through physical theater, developing their non-verbal communication skills and fostering creativity.

Her students, many of whom affectionately called her “Mama Conner,” were inspired not only by her creative brilliance but by her compassion and commitment to their overall well-being. She was a steadfast mentor, always advocating for her students, helping them grow not just as artists, but as individuals. Under her guidance, many of her students achieved great success in the arts; former students have achieved a Tony Award, a Grammy, and an Emmy.

Melody’s legacy is one of love, creativity, and unwavering support for those she taught and cared for. She departed this world on February 12th, 2025, preceded in death by her parents, her brothers Bill and Ron, and her sister Sharon.

Her memory will be cherished by her beloved daughter, Katie Mazy-Franks, and her grandchildren Hailey, Hannah, and Zachary Mazy-Franks, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, colleagues, and students whose lives she touched. In honor of Melody’s generosity, a memorial fund has been established for her daughter and grandchildren. Donations may be directed to the “Melody Conner Memorial.”

Private Disposition