Gerald R. Cannon, of Dothan, Alabama, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 21, surrounded by family. He was 83.
Gerald was born to Suell and Grace Cannon on August 24, 1941, in Tallassee, Alabama. He graduated from Auburn University with a Bachelor of Science degree in engineering. He served in the U.S. Army and National Guard and was quickly promoted to Captain and Company Commander due to his notable leadership skills and ability to care for and mentor those under his command.
Gerald’s quick rise in the Army enabled him to shift into his industrial career – overseeing manufacturing plants from Trane and Hobart, to becoming the President and General Manager of Dexter Lock in Auburn – which is what brought the family to their beloved Auburn. In all roles, he was a supportive and generous leader who was seen as a mentor by many of his employees.
Gerald was, above all else, a family man: a dedicated husband and father, a fun-loving ‘DeDaddy’ as he was known to his grandchildren and a loving father-in-law. His steady presence in the lives of those he loved and were loved by has left an indelible mark, particularly his unfailing support of Auburn University, which he generously and enthusiastically shared across generations. “War Eagle” was a familiar greeting everywhere he went. He leaves us with cherished memories of family outings to Auburn basketball and football games, vacations at the beach, beautiful days on Lake Martin, laughter, and a sweet and steady disposition that set the tone for every family gathering. Gerald loved to meet and talk with friends and strangers alike. If you were his friend, or if you were lucky enough to be in his family, you were on the receiving end of limitless support, encouragement, love, and his gift for making you laugh with his unique ‘Gerald-isms’. He was a man of character, quietly showing all of us how to live virtuous lives by the example he set every day.
Gerald was predeceased by his first wife, Jan Cannon, his second wife, Sherry Cannon, and his daughter Dale Cannon. He is survived by his beloved brother, Harold (Ann); his son, Rob (Ann), and his daughter, Cindy Cannon Thorne (Jeff); five grandchildren: Sam Cannon, Cate Cannon, Aaron Cannon, Stephen Naughton (Lexie) and Alice Lee Konstant (Thomas George); and two great-grandchildren, Cannon Naughton, who was his best little buddy, and brand new arrival, Evie Konstant.
There will be a celebration of life for Gerald on August 17th, 2025, at Water Oak Manor from 2:00pm to 4:00pm central time. Water Oak Manor is located at 232 Chadwick Lane, Auburn, Al 36832. All are invited to come and share stories of Gerald Cannon. There will be some light refreshments served. As Gerald would want, come casual and be comfortable.
