James T. Cannaday

James Thomas Cannaday, 71, of Rocky Mount, VA passed away on Tuesday, February 23, 2010. James was born in Prillaman Switch, VA on May 25, 1938, the oldest son of the late George Henry Cannaday and Hattie King Cannaday. James was preceded in death by his loving wife of 37 years, Pauline Bowles Cannaday as well as his sister Gertie Sue King and his brother Raleigh Cannaday. In 2000 James retired from Norfolk Southern Corporation after 40 years of dedicated service. He was extremely well known in his community and served as a leader of the Waidsboro Ruritan Club for over 30 years. He was a member of the Twin Oaks Baptist Church in Henry, VA. In his retirement James found a passion in the game of golf. He often played several times per week and was most proud of making two hole-in-one shots. James was a dedicated family man who enjoyed spending time with grandchildren and other extended family. He loved telling stories and sharing a good joke with his friends. It was often said that he had never met a stranger as he was loved by many and will be missed by all who knew him. James is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Kelly and Mark Betterton of Rocky Mount, VA, his daughter Joan Cannaday of McLean, VA, his son and daughter-in-law Jim and Lisa Cannaday of Leesburg, VA, and his brother and sister-in-law Jesse and Barbara Cannaday of Oak Level, VA. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Thomas Cannaday, Shannon Cannaday, Ethan Betterton, and Kathon Betterton. He is also survived by his very special friend, Elsie Turner of Henry, VA. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Twin Oaks Baptist Church, 2313 Henry Road, Ferrum VA 24088 or to Waidsboro Ruritan Club, c/o B.W. Wright, Treasurer, 5064 Franklin Street, Rocky Mount, VA 24151 Services will be held 11 a.m. Friday, February 26, 2010 at Lynch Conner-Bowman Funeral Chapel with Rev. Terry Covey officiating. Interment will follow in Franklin Memorial Park. His family will receive friends from 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, February 25 at Lynch Conner-Bowman Funeral Home in Rocky Mount. www.lynchconnerbowman.com