James A. Cannon

James Ambrose Cannon was born on January 11, 1936, and passed away on February 14, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great‑grandfather, Jim lived a full life marked by faithfulness, hard work, a strong faith in Jesus his Savior, and deep love for those around him.

Jim was born to Merle and Gladys Cannon and was the youngest of six children, growing up with three sisters and two brothers in Pawnee, Oklahoma. Jim attended Pawnee High School where he played football and was active in band. After high school, he went on to attend Oklahoma State University to play football, but a knee injury altered his path.

He then joined the Army, serving on active duty for six months in California. He continued to serve in the Army reserves for another 15 years. After his time on active duty, Jim returned to Oklahoma to attend Central State University in Edmond, where he completed his degree and met the love of his life, Sue.

Jim and Sue were married on April 14, 1961, and built a beautiful life and home, raising three sons: Alan, Randy, and Mike. Jim enjoyed a 38 year career with State Farm as a claims superintendent, building relationships and a reputation for integrity and dedication.

Jim had a lifelong love of singing and music. While in college, he sang as part of a rock & roll quartet called the Tip Tones. The group performed in many venues, including New York City, and even won a competition to sing in a commercial for Burma‑Shave. Throughout his life he also enjoyed singing in several barbershop quartets and choruses, and he faithfully sang in his church choir for almost 50 years.

One of Jim’s greatest joys was his family. He and Sue delighted in their grandchildren—Jeremy, Greg, Janelle, Cody, Garrett, Alyssa, and Caitlin—and several great‑grandchildren. He loved being involved in their lives, cheering them on, taking them on “grandkid vacations”, and creating memories that will be cherished for generations.

Jim enjoyed playing golf with Sue and friends and loved traveling with family and those closest to him. He was an avid sports fan, a long‑time OU football season ticket holder, and he took great pleasure in following the OKC Thunder. He treasured family reunions and any opportunity to be surrounded by those he loved.

Jim will be remembered for his deep and unwavering Christian faith, his steady presence, his sense of humor, his love of music and sports, and above all, his devoted love for his family and for the Lord. His legacy lives on in the lives of his children, grandchildren, and great‑grandchildren, and in the countless stories and memories shared by all who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his wife, Sue; his sons, Alan (Shawn), Randy (Brenda), and Mike (Jalynn); his grandchildren, Greg (Brandi), Janelle (Tristan), Cody (Makenna), Garrett, Alyssa, and Caitlin; and several great‑grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, his siblings, and his grandson, Jeremy.

Services will be held on Thursday, February 19, 2026, beginning at 2:00 p.m. at the Matthews Funeral Home Chapel in Edmond, OK.