George Nathan Cannon, 81, of Johnston, South Carolina, passed away on July 10, 2026, in Johnston, South Carolina.

Born on December 31, 1944, George lived a life defined by faith, service, honor, hard work, and devotion to his family. He will be remembered for his strength, kindness, unwavering integrity, and the compassion he showed to everyone who knew him.

George was an active member of the Johnston Baptist church, where his faith served as a guiding force throughout his life. His commitment to God, his family, and his community was reflected in the way he lived each day—with humility, generosity, and a servant’s heart.

George proudly served his country in the United States Army for 22 years, beginning his military career in 1968. During his service, he completed two and a half tours in Vietnam while serving with the Armored Cavalry. Through his exceptional leadership, dedication, and professionalism, he distinguished himself among his peers by attaining the rank of Sergeant Major in less than 20 years. His devotion to duty and genuine care for the soldiers under his command were evident throughout his military career and remained hallmarks of his character long after his retirement.

Following his retirement from the Army, George continued to exemplify determination and a strong work ethic by establishing his own successful business as an owner-operator truck driver. He took great pride in his work and remained dedicated to his profession until his final retirement.

George was preceded in death by his first wife, Linda Hart Cannon; his son, George Cannon Jr.; his parents, Ivy Cannon Sr. and Maddie Gray Cannon; his siblings, Laverne, Bobbi, Sybil, Gladys, Pal, Jonny, and Frankie and his aunt and uncle, Nathan Cannon and Pearl Cannon, who lovingly raised him.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Fay Hatcher Cannon, with whom he shared the later years of his life; his children, Velvet Underwood, Michael Cannon, Travis Cannon, and Sherry Cannon; his cherished grandchildren, Elizabeth Cantrell, Sean Cannon, Dallas Cannon, Maddison Cannon, and Shelby Cannon; his siblings, Minnie and Ivy Jr.; and faithful friend Carlos Costillo. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, extended family members, lifelong friends, fellow veterans, and members of his church family who will forever cherish his memory.

George’s life was a testament to courage, resilience, faith, and selfless service. Whether serving his country, building his business, worshipping alongside his church family, or caring for those he loved, he led by example with humility, honor, and unwavering commitment. His legacy of love, sacrifice, leadership, and perseverance will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Though he will be deeply missed, George’s memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, fellow soldiers, and all whose lives he touched.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 pm Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at the McSwain-Evans Funeral Home Chapel by the Rev. Tommy Barwick. Burial will follow in Newberry Memorial Gardens, 15127 C.R.Koon Highway, Newberry, SC 29108. The family will receive friends from 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm in the McSwain-Evans Funeral Home Chapel.

Please make donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, PO BOX 758516, Topeka, KS 66675.

Active pallbearers will be Tim Olmstead, Travis Hatcher, Carlos Costello, Mike Cannon, Travis Cannon and Dan Underwood.