William Marvin Cannon, Jr.

William Marvin Cannon, Jr., a devoted family man, passed away peacefully on July 27, 2023, in Columbus, Ga. Born on November 29, 1944, in Tifton, Ga., he was a man of great character and charm who touched the lives of many with his kindness and generosity.

William, was a proud 1962 graduate of Jordan High School. Following his graduation, he embarked on a successful career in construction, eventually becoming the owner of William Cannon Construction Company. His dedication to his work and his community was evident in the structures he helped to erect and the relationships he built within the industry. His leadership qualities were recognized when he served as the President of the Columbus Homebuilders Association, a role he fulfilled with great enthusiasm and commitment.

In his later years, William transitioned from construction to a role that allowed him to connect directly with people. For the past three years, he served as a greeter at the Walmart on Airport Thruway in Columbus, Ga. This position brought him immense joy as he made countless friends and brightened the days of shoppers with his warm greetings and friendly banter.

Aside from his work, William had a deep passion for sports, particularly the Atlanta Braves and the Georgia Bulldogs. His love for these teams was only surpassed by his love for his family and his enjoyment of spending quality time with children.

William was preceded in death by his parents, William Marvin Cannon, Sr., and Myrtice Elizabeth Weatherington Cannon, his wife Katherine Ann Day Cannon and his sister Mary Alice Pathanos.

He was a devoted father to his son, Stephen Cannon (Duang) of Columbus, GA., and his daughter, Kristin Lowe (Jonathan) of Columbus, GA.  He was also a loving stepfather to Jon Griggs of Dublin, GA., and Paul Griggs, III (Trae) of Washington State, and a cherished brother to his sister, Betty Wildman (Larry) of Columbus, GA. William’s legacy also extends to his grandchildren, Sarah Elizabeth Griggs (Sarah Beth), Paul Griggs, IV. (Tiger), Chandler Griggs, Baleigh Griggs, and his four great-grandchildren.  William is also survived by his former wife and mother of his children Sue Anne Rathel.

His love for his family was evident in the time and care he took in nurturing these relationships. He was not just a patriarch but also a friend, mentor, and source of support for his family.

As we remember William, we celebrate a life well-lived. His passion for building extended beyond his professional life and into his personal life, where he built a loving family and a network of friends who will miss him greatly. Bill's life was a testament to the power of kindness, hard work, and a positive attitude. His memory will live on in the hearts of those he touched, the buildings he constructed, and the community he served.

Flowers will be accepted, those so desiring may make contributions to Grace Presbyterian Church Youth Activity Center Building Fund 7211 Britton Drive Columbus, Georgia 31904 where his passion for building will live forever.