"Well-Known Ithacan Succumbs In 72nd Year--Member of The Local Department 20 Years--Later Was Engaged In Construction Business.
John D. Conley, 71, a well known resident of Ithaca for the past 45 years and former chief of police, died at his residence, 114 Ferris place, about 4:30 o'clock this morning of heart disease....
Besides his wife, Mrs. Elizabeth Conley, he leaves a sister, Mrs. William Kolbe, and a brother, P. D. Conley of this city.
Funeral services will be held at the late residence at 8:30 o'clock Saturday morning and at 9 o'clock at the Immaculate Conception Church... Internment will be in Calvary Cemetery.
Mr. Conley was born in Towanda, Pa., on December 24, 1853. His parents were prosperous farmers in that section and he stayed home until he was almost 30 years of age, assisting his father with the farm work and receiving as much education as the rural schools located near his home afforded.
Forty-five years ago he came to Ithaca and accepted employment with the Lehigh Valley Railroad. In 1893 he married Mrs. Conley who was formerly Miss Elizabeth Fitter. About 30 years ago he joined the Ithaca police force, serving the city as patrolman for 20 years. In 1902 he was appointed chief of police by Mayor Leroy Todd....
When the United States entered the World War...he took up the yoke of labor that the young men had called to the colors, vacated. During the war period he worked as motorman for the Ithaca Traction Corporation.
When Mr. Conley resigned as chief of police he entered in the construction business with his brother, P. D. Conley. He was forced to retire three years ago when his health began to fail.
His fraternal affiliations were few, excepting that he was always active in the interests of the Holy Name Society of the Immaculate Conception Church. He was, however, an enthusiastic politician and a staunch supporter Democratic party."
"John D. Conley Former Police Chief, Is Dead," Ithaca Journal-News, May 7, 1925, 5.