James Nick Cannell

James Nick Cannell, age 80, after a life well-lived and a selfless devotion to his family, passed away peacefully surrounded by family, on December 20, 2024. Jim was born in Columbus, Ohio on August 13, 1944 to Hope and Nick Cannell, who preceded him in death along with his brother Steve. He graduated from Upper Arlington High School and attended Miami University and The Ohio State University.
He lived his life believing "God will, if you won't - Do it God's way." Jim devoted his life to taking care of his children and preparing them to live in God's will. He was faithful in providing support to many Christian ministries he held dear.
A family tradition started many years ago with the annual Upper Arlington Fourth of July celebration. Attending the UA Parade and fireworks with grandchildren were especially happy times. He loved trips to Disney with his father, visits to Beulah Beach Camp (Huron, Ohio) with his granddaughters, lunches with old High School buddies, seeing his children and their families gather at holidays, and especially hearing God's word and studying His Bible.
Jim was selfless, and devoted his life to the care and comfort of others. Jim is survived by his sons, daughter, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren: son Nick Cannell and his wife Denise of Columbus, son Michael Cannell and his wife Michele of Powell, daughter Christin Howarth and her husband Ben of Upper Arlington, and son Matthew Cannell and his wife Lauren of Columbus. His beloved family also includes grandchildren James Cannell of Dublin, Kyra Richardson and her husband Dwayne of Delaware, Melina Folwarczny and her husband Andrew of Powell, Olivia Howarth of Upper Arlington, Elliana Howarth of Upper Arlington, and Caden Cannell of Columbus. He was also blessed with great-granddaughters Aria Richardson, Isla Richardson, and Elsie Richardson of Delaware. Jim is also survived by three loving sisters and many nieces and nephews.
A celebration service will be held at First Alliance Church, 3750 W. Henderson Rd, Columbus, Ohio 43220 on Friday, December 27 at 3:00pm where friends may call one hour prior to the service.
In lieu of flowers, friends may consider donations to PDHC (Pregnancy Decision Health Center) 665 E. Dublin-Granville Road, Suite 120, Columbus, Ohio 43229.