Retired businessman seeks ways to give back in ‘returning phase’ of life through passion for flying 10:00 am, Apr. 29, 2021 × Jim Conn stands on the back porch of his home in Alexandria. Although he retired from his career as a businessman, Conn continues flying as a volunteer pilot, offering free flights for people who need help getting to their medical appointments. “The final trimester (of life) is trying to return, leaving something of value behind,” he said. (Jasmine Johnson / Echo Press) Oftentimes, when looking back on one’s life, there are a few phrases that stick out among the rest. For Jim Conn, 78, that statement of advice outlines three key phases of life: Learning, earning and returning.