James E. Cannon, 88, formerly of Chapin, SC died on May 6, 2020 in St. Elizabeth's Hospital, Brighton, MA. Born on January 12, 1932, he was a son of the late James Robert and Hattie Montz Cannon. He grew up in the White Rock section of Lexington County, the oldest of four boys. He attended the public schools of Richland County, joined the US Army at the age of seventeen, and received his high school diploma while in service. Mr. Cannon was the last surviving member of his birth family. He was a member of Greater Hopewell AME Church of Irmo, SC. Sgt Cannon's military career spanned 30-years with a number of those years spent in Germany. Following his military retirement, he moved to Massachusetts where he resided until his death. Survivors include his sister-in-law, Mildred Cannon, niece, Patricia Curry (David); nephews, Lawrence Cannon, Sr. and Randy Reeves; and a host of great nieces, nephews and other loving relatives and friends. A graveside funeral service with military honors will be held on Monday, June 1, 2020 at 11:00 am in Hopewell Cemetery, Chapin, SC. Memories and online condolences may be shared with the family at www.whitakerfuneralhome.com. Whitaker Funeral Home, Chapin, is assisting the family.