James A. Cannon, 81, of Sebring, Fla., passed away Saturday, Jan, 23, 2021. He was born on March 12, 1939, in Dyer, Tenn., to Paul and Christine (Richmond) Cannon. James was a graduate of Peabody High School, Class of 1957, and boy did they have stories to tell. James made his career as a carpenter, was of the Baptist faith and served in the United States Air Force as an airplane diesel mechanic during the Vietnam war. He had been a resident of Sebring, Fla. since coming from Missouri in 2005. He was a loving husband and father. He was also a proud grandpa and great-grandpa and enjoyed time spent with his family at the lake and at weekly family dinners. Before his stroke in 2012, he loved being outdoors hunting, fishing, golfing or working with his hands. If you could describe it, he could build it. He loved to socialize and never, ever met a stranger. If you didn’t know him when he met you on the street, you would know him when you left and you’d never forget him.
James is survived by his wife of 58 years, 7 months and 23 days; Lou Cannon, of Sebring, Fla.; daughter, Jackie Freeman, of Mountain Grove; brother, Richie Cannon (Dottie), of Trenton, Tenn.; three grandchildren, Treshia Kincaid; Brittnee Byerley (Matthew), of Mountain Grove; and George Cannon (Olivia), of Flora, Ill.; seven great-grandchildren, Colton, Shi, Payton, Harley, Brady, Addley and Andrew. He was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Christine Hunt; step-father, Bernice Hunt; father, Paul Cannon; sister, Sue Parker; son, James R. Cannon; and son-in-law, John Freeman. He was truly loved and will be missed by many. A Celebration of Life event will be held at a later date. Online condolences: www.craighurttfuneralhome.com.
