OBITUARY: Dr. Earl Marin Cannon Jr.

As a courtesy to the Cannon Family, we share this obituary after the sudden loss of Dr. Earl Marin Cannon, Jr. formerly of Cheatham County.

Dr. Earl Marin Cannon Jr. passed away peacefully on January 3, 2026, in Harrisonburg, VA. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. As a man of deep faith, his life was guided by integrity, kindness, and quiet strength.

Born on November 23, 1946, Earl was raised in Ashland City, where he learned the value of hard work on his family’s farm. On July 23, 1969, he married the love of his life, Karen, sharing 56 years together. He taught and served as a principal in Cheatham County, Tennessee, before moving to Lewes, Delaware in 1984. There, he continued his career in educational administration with the Seaford School District, where he remained until his retirement in 2007. His commitment to students, educators, and his community left a lasting impact.

Earl found joy in both country living and life along the Delaware shore boating, fishing, and crabbing in the Lewes and Rehoboth Bays. He enjoyed history, travel, wine tasting, reading, strategy games, theater, and music.

Earl is survived by his daughters, Amy Graham (Trevor), Mary Steiner, and Catherine Flaherty (Kevin); his cherished grandchildren, Jordan, Christina, Molly, Michaela, Henry, and Aaron; and his sisters, Gayle Merritt, Gloria Williams, and Vicki Johnson. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Karen; his parents, Earl and Ruth Cannon Sr.; and his in-laws, Rev. Robert and Mary Salser and Dorothy Salser.

Earl will be remembered for his steady presence, generous spirit, and the deep love he shared with those fortunate enough to know him.