Michael C. Cannon

In Loving Memory of

Michael Christopher “Lil Tree” Cannon

June 26, 1981 – October 4, 2025

Michael Christopher “Lil Tree” Cannon, age 44, of Jackson, Mississippi, passed away on October 4, 2025. Born on June 26, 1981, in Jackson, Michael was a lifelong resident who touched many lives through his kindness, creativity, and gentle spirit.

From an early age, Michael was known for his respectful nature and calm demeanor. His early education teachers remember him as a thoughtful, well-mannered young man whose quiet strength left a lasting impression. He attended Provine High School, where he humbly continued to embody those same qualities.

Michael discovered his passion on the open road. After earning his Commercial Driver’s License, he built a fulfilling career as an 18-wheeler driver. Known for his dedication and precision, he took great pride in his work and found joy and peace behind the wheel.

Outside of his profession, Michael was inventive and full of curiosity. He loved to dance and enjoyed collecting vintage household items, often repurposing them into something new. Tinkering with small engines brought him satisfaction and calm—a reflection of his patient and thoughtful nature.

Michael found simple joys in everyday life. He had a deep appreciation for good food—especially collard greens and peach cobbler—and was known for never visiting his beloved mother without bringing her a bag of Lay’s Potato Chips and a Diet Coke. The special bond they shared was one of unwavering love and devotion.

A deeply spiritual man, Michael viewed life as a journey of transformation and discovery. His reflections on “I AM” spoke to his desire for understanding, enlightenment, and peace.

Children and adults alike were drawn to Michael’s warmth and easygoing nature. He had a gift for connecting with others and making people feel valued and loved.

Michael will be lovingly remembered by his mother, Renee Shakespeare; brothers Patrick W. Cannon, Paul R. Cannon, Jeremy K. Cannon, and Cedric B. Cannon; sisters Melissa F. Payne and Zena J. Cannon; uncles Dennis E. Brown, Willie N. Ford, and Ika A. Myers; aunts Lue Wahjudi, Pamela Dixon, and Margie Hawes Morrison; cousins Nicole “Nikki” Goree (née Ford), Andre Ford, Marissa Ford, Tyler Myers, and Anastasia Hawes-Watson; special “aunts” Sandra F. Henry and Willa Womack of Jackson, Mississippi; stepfather James C. Shakespeare; and mentor and spiritual advisor Pastor Earnest Hall of Vicksburg, Mississippi.

He was preceded in death by his father, Michael Haywood Cannon; uncles Lannial Myers, Carlaglonna Myers, and Howard Hawes; and cousin Jovon Talley Ford.

A Memorial Gathering to celebrate Michael’s life will be held Thursday, October 23, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at Jackson Memorial Funeral Service, 1000 Woodrow Wilson Avenue, Jackson, Mississippi.

Though his life was tragically cut short, Michael’s memory will forever remain a beacon of light and love to all who knew him. His gentle heart, quiet strength, and thoughtful spirit will live on through the many lives he touched.

“May the memory of Michael Christopher ‘Lil Tree’ Cannon remind us to live with kindness, seek peace, and cherish each moment with those we love.”