James D. Canada

James D. Canada, 86 of Oxford, Alabama passed away on September 10, 2025, at Bill Nichols State Veterans Home in Alexander City, of Tallapoosa County, Alabama. He was born in Anniston, Alabama on February 1, 1939, and as soon as he turned seventeen he joined the Air Force. He is preceded in death by his parents, Elbert Leonard Canada and Jimmy Cecil "Curry" Canada; brothers, Perry and Lonnie Canada; sister, Annie Lou Jones; 1st wife and mother of his children, Katharina Kleiner Canada; and Margaret's son, Byron Williamson. He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Margaret Hall Williamson Canada; children, James "Mark" Canada, Theresa Canada Vera (Francis), John M. Canada (Angie), Stephen B. Williamson (Sherri); numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and other family members and friends. He spent 20 years in the Air Force of which thirteen years were out of country. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross in Vietnam due to being instrumental in saving the life of a downed pilot in the South China Sea. After a short stint at Lee Brass of Anniston, Alabama he retired from Anniston Army Depot after twenty years of Civil Service. For many years he was Santa Claus at The Oxford Quintard Mall along with Mrs. Claus, his wife Margaret Hall Williamson Canada. His salary supported various charitable endeavors, including the local Women's Shelter and Church supported charities. While stationed in Italy with his family, he worked several years as a Boy Scout leader. He became a Scuba Diver to spend time with his son, Mark. He was a long time member of Oxford United Methodist Church and loved to travel.
A graveside service will be held on September 27, 2025, at ForestLawn Memorial Gardens Cemetery starting at 2:00pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to your charity of choice, or to The Alzheimer's Society in his memory.
Miller Funeral Home, Crematory, and Aquamation Center
Phone: 256-831-4611