He was a good person with all the superlative attributes that we as aspiring Christians would like each of us to be remembered by. My only regret is that we lost contact with each other after our days as Mississippi State graduate students. Am very regretful that only now am I learning about his death. May he rest in peace always.

Father Paul Canonici and I shared the same birthday, September 26th. Pope Paul the VI also had the same birthday. He would always wish me a happy birthday when I was a student at St. Joe's. Everyone loved him. Rest in Peace Father.

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.

Father Paul is one of the best human beings I have ever known. He has been a close family friend since 1984. We have shared many dinners at his home, holidays, and trips to Italy together. He was extremely kind, thoughtful, intelligent, caring, creative,supportive, and loyal friend. We miss him terribly, but take comfort knowing he is in heaven. He immeasurably enriched our lives and are so grateful for him. Pattie Pearson, Plano, Texas

God bless you Paul you were a compassionate priest who cared about people, friends and family. May you rest in peace!

Thank you for your wonderful book researching the Delta Italians. As a proud descendant of those strong immigrants I received a greater appreciation of their experience by reading his work. The Delta Italians here in Chicago salute you, May his memory be eternal.

I knew Msgr. Paul Canonici as a man who loved his church and God dearly. He was the Superintendent of our Catholic Schools, organized and raised funds for the new St. Joseph High School and the St. Francis Church and Daycare/School. I am told St. Francis Church was designed after the church in Italy because of Msgr. Canonicis research and influence. He brought the history of the immigrant Italian people, their culture, and their cuisine to each of us through the books he wrote: The Delta Italians, The Delta Italians, Volume II, The So Italian Cookbook, and the Childrens book, LaBefana. There may be other books I am unaware of. He was an amazing cook and artist as well. His water color pictures were a talent he developed later in his life. I recently saw an entire room of his paintings at the Gallery Restaurant in Merigold, MS. Msgr. Canonici told me when he went to one of the houses of his relatives in Italy, that the family responded as if a long deceased relative were there with them again- that meant he strongly resembled the deceased relative. Msgr. Canonici introduced us to beautiful outdoor Masses at St. Elizabeth School and also taught us how to know and love Jesus daily. May the bishops, priests, relatives, parishioners, and friends who knew this great man realize what a gift he was to each of us. He will be greatly missed and I am sure God is saying,Well done and welcome, my good and faithful servant.!!!

Father Paul brought me into the church, married me to Woody McKnight and baptized one of our grandchildren. Was there when Woody became sick. Prayers go with him to Italy

I was honored to know Uncle Paul. Our loss is heaven's gain. Rest in peace! Now you can paint with colors unknown.

Our sincere condolences. Remembering you in prayer.

Children of Eugene Allegrezza

Very kind man that impacted numerous lives mine included. Always enjoyed his visits and insights. Joseph & Peggy MENGARELLI, Shelby, Ms.

Such a loss, I have known Paul since 4th grade , 1942, in Shaw, Ms. I have never known a finer man or up-
standing man in his community or any other community. He wil be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him.

Father Canonici married me and my late husband, Joel R. Converse, 34 years ago. He was a great friend and Priest. Love this man so much.

RIP Father Canonici you were the best so sweet and kind.

God Bless

Janice Converse

Fr. Paul was a dear friend of ours. We spent many a day together and always enjoyed his friendship.
He blessed our engagement in Jackson, Ms. 47 years ago. A great friend and always a kind word from Father Paul.

God bless!

Terry and Gloria Dahlman
Memphis, Tn.