Long-standing former dean dies at age 76

A former dean of the fine arts and communication department died Saturday, Jan. 15 at his residence.

Donald McConkey, 76, of Harrisonburg, came to JMU in 1970 as a professor of speech communication. He retired from the university in 1995 and was named a professor emeritus to the department of speech communication.

"Dr. McConkey was a valued member of the university and a long-standing member of the faculty," JMU spokesman Andy Perrine said. "He was actually dean when I was a student here. We are sad to hear of his passing."

Richard Whitman, the dean who followed McConkey’s retirement, said McConkey was a principal facilitator to the college and communication department. "He made many wonderful contributions to the university," Whitman said.

McConkey’s wife, Martha Ann Ballard, passed away in 1991. He leaves no members of his immediate family.

McConkey worked at the College of William & Mary from 1954 to 1970 before he came to JMU.

Private burial services will be held in Newport News at a later date. Arrangements in Harrisonburg are being handled by the Kyger Funeral Homes and Crematory on South Main Street.
— from staff reports