Bro. Julian “Jewel” Canty

It's a Celebration of Love for Bro. Julian "Jewel" Canty, who transitioned from his mortal body to his glorified heavenly body on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, in Tampa General Hospital. The Celebration of Love for Bro. Julian "Jewel" Canty will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Tyer Temple United Methodist Church, 3305 N. 15th St, Tampa, FL 33605, with Minister Terry J. Allen, Sr., Officiating.

Bro. Julian "Jewel" Canty was born in Tampa, Florida, on April 20, 1939, to the late Clifford Canty Sr. and Katie-Bell Curtis Canty. He spent his entire life in Tampa, except for the years he attended college, playing football at Albany State University and baseball at Allen University as a catcher. Bro. Canty played with elite physical abilities, including a strong arm, quick feet, and a fast pop-up time, along with a high level of flexibility, mobility, and blocking skills.

Bro. Canty received his education in the Hillsborough County Public School System, graduating from Middleton High School, Class of 1957. After graduation, he attended Albany State University and Allen University, earning several athletic scholarships for his exceptional speed and athleticism while excelling in dual sports. During his junior year of college, Julian was recruited to play baseball in the New York Yankees Minor League system. He served as a catcher for many years until he unfortunately broke his leg while playing football during the off-season. After his baseball career ended, Julian returned to his native roots, where he held various jobs. He worked at Bay Harbor Inn, Palma Ceia Golf & Country Club, and Tampa Electric Company (TECO), where he dedicated over 25 years of service before retiring.

Bro. Canty received his B.A. (Born Again) degree in April 2005 at Highland Avenue Church of Christ under the leadership of the late educator, Bro. O. Trone. Throughout his time there, he served as a faithful member, helper, and friend.

Julian was also an avid sports enthusiast. Although he played baseball for years, he especially loved football. He found immense joy in being surrounded by his family and close friends while watching any football game he could catch. Julian loved his children and cherished celebrating his grandchildren and various holidays. He delighted in watching his grandchildren grow and progress-from playing Shetland and Pony League baseball to advancing to high school, football, and eventually college sports. Julian was an outdoor enthusiast who believed every child should have the opportunity to pursue any sport they choose without facing negative criticism from parents or coaches.

Bro. Canty was a member of several traveling clubs but traveled most frequently with the "Double Decker" Club, following the Tampa Bay Buccaneers across the country. He was a season ticket holder for over 15 years. Julian loved hosting enormous cookouts with family and friends, barbecuing entire pigs and entertaining at least twice a month with his wife, brothers, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

In his later years, Bro. Canty placed his love, trust, and faith in Jesus Christ, the author and finisher of our salvation, when he went down into the watery grave of baptism for the forgiveness of his sins. He was baptized into Christ in April 2005 and devoted his remaining years to helping and teaching others-especially his grandsons on how to be strong, courteous, and courageous young men. His strength, love, and humor endeared him to many. Bro. Canty's legacy lives on through his family and loved ones, who will forever cherish his memory.

Bro. Julian Canty was preceded in death by: his wife, Naomi Canty; his brothers, Clifford Canty, Jr. and Jerome Canty and one sister, Lizetora "Liz" Barnum.

A beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great-grandfather, and friend, Bro. Canty leaves to cherish memories: his beloved son, Jerald Stone, Sr. and wife (Ernestine); four daughters, Persephone Canty, Rotunda (Michelle) Canty, Patrese R. Canty Davis, and Renita G. Canty; sixteen grandchildren, Michael, Tomeca, Taiwanda, Le'Tanya, Jerald Jr. (Cynesia), Curtis (Carlisha), Te'a, Devon, Demond (Brandin Marie), Shantae, Rufus, James, Roche' (Santiira), Bryce, RaShaad (Kayrol), and Jayla; 31 great-grandchildren; several great-great grands; a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins; one brother-in-law, Usher Barnum, Sr.; and other loving relatives and close friends.

Bro. Julian "Jewel" Canty will never be forgotten, because his love lives within every one of us.

Visitation will be held on Friday, February 20, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Ray Williams Funeral Home, 301 N. Howard Avenue, Tampa, FL 33606.

Arrangements entrusted to Ray Williams Funeral Home, Rhodes & Northern, Owners.

www.raywilliamsfuneralhome.com