Billy Joe "Bj" Cannon

1938 - 2021

Billy Joe "BJ" Cannon

March 5, 1938 - August 19, 2021

Billy Joe "BJ" Cannon, 83, restorer of vintage cars, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, August 19, 2021. He was born in Bryan, Texas on March 5, 1938. BJ retired from the United States Navy in 1977 and while in the Navy, he served on the U.S.S. carriers Lexington, Kitty Hawk, John F. Kennedy and the Forrestal. During his career in the Navy, he received many commendations for going over and beyond the call of duty, and after retirement, he made Macclenny his home. He worked for Florida Gateway College as an instructor in the golf course maintenance program, and was highly respected by all of his fellow faculty and students. He was also a dedicated member of Glen Baptist Church and involved in Carpenters for Christ. He founded, and was president of, the Shadetree Miniature Aircraft Association and a licensed HAM radio operator in Macclenny for many years. He served as Macclenny Commissioner from 2002 to 2005 and took great pride in the opportunity to serve his community. BJ had a genuine passion for classic cars, which consisted of Model T's and Model A's, as well as many others, including a couple of pristine Chevrolet Corvettes. He restored countless numbers of cars and fellow car enthusiasts from across the country looked to him for advice and wisdom, as he was a master in all he did. BJ was a fun-loving, easy going man who was loved by all who were blessed to know him.

Mr. Cannon is survived by his wife of 61 years, Marie Cannon and their daughter Robin Lane; sister Judy Faye Hughson; many nieces, nephews and wonderful friends. He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Lutie Lee and Andrew Braxton Cannon; brother Andrew Lee Cannon and his sister Janie Sue Mathews.

A funeral service to honor the life of Mr. Cannon was held Thursday, August 26, at his church with Pastor Chas Rowland officiating. Visitation and gathering with the family was Wednesday, August 25 at the church. Interment will be at Macedonia Cemetery. Guerry Funeral Home of Macclenny is in charge of arrangements.