Rev. Gary C. Cannon

Rev. Gary C. Cannon, 68, of Greenville, South Carolina, faithful husband of Cindy Chestnut Cannon, met his Lord and Savior face to face on Sunday, January 12, 2025. 

Born on December 23, 1956, in Lake Wales, Florida, he was a son of Ruby Sheffield Cannon, and the late Conrad C. Cannon. Gary lived a life rich in service, faith, and compassion, leaving behind an indelible legacy that touched countless lives. His love for his family was profound, and nothing brought him more joy than spending time with his children and grandchildren. For 42 years, Gary committed himself to the ministry as a faithful Youth Pastor. His journey began at Lake Wire Church of God in Lakeland, Florida, where he dedicated 17 years to nurturing young hearts and guiding them in their spiritual journeys. His path then led him to Greenville, South Carolina, and Tremont Church of God, where he served for 31 years. His energetic passion was evident as he embraced the role of Youth Pastor for 25 years before moving into the position of Associate Pastor and College and Career Pastor for 6 additional years.

Gary's unwavering faith and resilience were evident in his approach to life and ministry. He possessed a remarkable ability to inspire positivity in those around him. Friends and congregants often remarked, "Pastor Gary was the real deal." He knew what it meant to be redeemed and preached passionately about redemption through Jesus Christ, embodying a life free of double standards. The impact he had on the youth he mentored, and the entire community can only be fathomed in the hearts touched by his unwavering spirit.

Gary graduated from Kathleen High School in Lakeland, Florida, and carried forth the values of hard work, dedication, and service which he instilled in his family and community. Those who had the privilege of encountering him could attest to his genuine spirit. He devoted himself to evangelizing and praying for everyone who crossed his path, always ensuring others’ needs were prioritized, even during challenging times. His strength was particularly visible as he faced health challenges with grace, never wavering in his commitment to the calling he embraced so wholeheartedly.

Alongside his ministry, Gary was a loving husband to his wife Cindy, the love of his life for fifty wonderful years. Together, they epitomized the essence of a true ministry team—serving joyfully and faithfully while supporting one another through every season. Their relationship demonstrated a profound commitment to each other and God, a testament to faithful living that many aspired to emulate.

An athlete in his younger days, Gary relished the joys of life, from the exhilarating rides of surfing at the beach to the camaraderie of baseball and church softball. His hobbies painted a picture of a man who cherished the beauty of the world around him and the joyous moments shared with friends and family.

The love and respect for Gary reverberate through the lives he touched. He has received his healing and ultimate reward, and his legacy will continue to inspire others to walk in faith. Gary Cannon has left us physically, but the seeds he planted in the hearts of many will forever blossom, reminding us of a life dedicated to God and service. 

In addition to his loving wife of 50 years and mother, he is survived by his son, Shane Cannon (Karla) of Greer, South Carolina; a daughter, Serena Wilson (Jason) of Powdersville, South Carolina; a brother, Todd Cannon (Kim) of Lakeland, Florida; two sisters, Oleda Johnson (Mike) of Frostproof, Florida, and Denise Grace of Lakeland, Florida; and five grandchildren, Drew Cannon, Chloe Cannon, Ashlyn Wilson, Braylon Wilson, and Cayden Wilson. 

The family will receive friends on Friday, January 17, 2025, from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM at Tremont Church of God. 

The funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Tremont Church of God. Entombment will follow the service in the Chapel of Reflection Mausoleum of Robinson Memorial Gardens. 

The family requests that the College and Career Class of Tremont Church of God serve as honorary pallbearers. 

In lieu of flowers, the family request that memorials be made to the New Building Fund of Tremont Church of God, 2854 New Easley Highway, Greenville, SC 29611. 

Visit RobinsonFuneralHomes.com or Robinson Funeral Home & Crematory - Powdersville Road, Easley.