Stenson Levonette Conley

Stenson Levonette Conley gained his wings on Tuesday, October15, 2024. 

Stenson was born in Buncombe County on May 13, 1955 to Eula Jean Conley. Stenson was a former Winston-Salem State University head women’s basketball coach, track and field and cross-country coach. 

Stenson graduated from Winston-Salem State University in 1977 with his bachelor of science and was a member of the men’s basketball team playing for the legendary Big House Gaines. He received his Masters in Sports Administration in 1984 from the United States Sports Academy. Coach Stenson was one of the first alumni to coach at his alma mater. Stenson retired from WSSU Physical Education and Sports Management in 2021. Stenson was recently inducted into McDowell High Hall of Fame as a legendary basketball player. 

Stenson is preceded in death by grandparents, Vance and Eula Conley; his uncles and aunts, James and Elaine Henry, Roy and Sarah Hamilton, Johnny and Virginia Groce, Ann Conley, Vance Conley, Jr., and Tench Carson. 

Stenson is survived by his mom, Eula Jean Conley; wife, Phyllis B. Conley and only child Jamaal Conley; Brothers Dean (Marie) Conley, Jamie Conley; sisters Gail (Joe) Walls, Vonda (James) Freeman, Alesia (Tony) Faulk, Lanae, Tanisha Conley and Kendra Conley; an aunt, Annette Carson; uncle, James Conley; a host of nieces, nephews and cousins. Stenson was loved by many and will be dearly missed by all.

A memorial service will be held at the Beam Celebration Center on Monday, October 21, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. with the Rev. Walter Pegues officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service from 1:00 until 2:00. 

“As the wind was gently blowing and the clouds were billowing across the sky a voice whispered down. It’s time to say goodbye!!”