Ms. Barbara Jean Howard

Honoring the Life of Barbara Jean Cannon (Howard)*
*November 29, 1951 – May 23, 2025
With deep love and heartfelt remembrance, we honor the life of Barbara Jean Cannon, who passed away peacefully on May 23, 2025, at the age of 73. She was born on November 29, 1951, in Detroit, Michigan, to Leroy and Juella Cannon, both of whom preceded her in death. In 1969, Barbara married Cecil Howard. A lifelong Detroiter, her life was marked by love, service, and unwavering devotion to her family.
She was a proud graduate of the Detroit Public School system, and her name can be found in the alumni history books of Cass Technical High School.
As an entrepreneur, Barbara pursued multiple ventures. In the 1980s, she
owned a cleaning service with several contracts across the metropolitan area, often putting her sons to work early by taking them alongside her. She also worked as an interior decorator, beautifying many homes and businesses throughout Detroit. In the 1990s, she operated several resale shops set up in two major flea markets on the city's west side.
Eventually, Barbara's career shifted to caregiving-a profession that perfectly reflected her nurturing spirit and selfless heart. She embodied grace, humility, and kindness, always ready to care for others and offer support, no matter the circumstance.
Winner of the Cannon Family Fun Day 2023 "Big Sister Support Award " and the "Momma Bear" for her willingness and ability to protect those around her, making others feel safe, holding others accountable, and doing what's needed to protect the Cannon name and those who carry that name.
Also the winner of the 2024 "Mighty Mindset Award"
For believing the best, expecting the best and demanding the best. Thank you for demonstrating what a mighty mindset looks like.
Barbara is preceded in death by her daughter, Alisa Cannon; her son, Cecil Cannon; and her siblings, Shirley Houge and Bernard Cannon.
She leaves to cherish her memory: her son Kevin a.k.a. Falah (Tiffany a.k.a Hanifah)
Cannon; her daughter Christina (Lamarca) Graddy;
five siblings-Leroy Cannon, Carolyn Ward, Al Cannon, Vanessa Cannon, and Greg (Wanda) Cannon; sister-in-law Lanette Cannon; 18 grandchildren; and 31 great-grandchildren. Barbara's loving spirit also lives on through a host of nieces, nephews,
extended family, and friends. Her compassion and care were the foundation of her legacy, and her memory will continue to inspire all who know her.
"Her love knew no limits, her heart welcomed all-she gave the kind of care that only comes from a soul truly devoted to others."