“But those who trust in the Lord for help will find their strength renewed. They will rise on wings like eagles: they will run and not get weary; they will walk and not grow weak.” Isaiah 40:31
Jim was born in Memphis, TN on April 7, 1950 to Aubrey L. Canerdy, Sr. & Virginia Arnold. This was the beginning of life for a man who overcame monstrous struggles and obstacles. Blossoming into a disciple of God that was continually polished day by day. When one appears at their to-do list, Big Jim most likely did it all. Continuously setting new goals and accomplishment, that he never failed to achieve. Fear was not in his vocabulary, and his stamina always amazed us. He loved God, family, and friends whole heartedly. Jim characterized as a "gentle lamb" dressed in a bear suit. He gave meaningful hugs, and told aspiring stories.
If not at church or with family, he was most likely building a creative invention or figures made of Lego blocks. Devoted to his work, he continuously dreamed about the next project. Santa Claus was an additional hobby that not only brought joy to Jim, but also to the children who stared in adoration. Of course, being the man of many talents, scouting was his next love. Committing his spare time to teach young boys to become respectful, good men. There wasn’t any challenge that scared Jim, turning it into an opportunity to flourish his understanding. What most people might only see as impossible, he viewed as a challenge to achieve beyond and more. If he couldn’t do it, he found a way to learn how to do it.
He accomplished so much in one person’s life, as a graduate from Kingsbury High School and later from State Tech (now Southwestern), University of Memphis with BS in mechanical engineering and again at 65; he received his MA in Science. Never giving up, and proving, no matter how old, you can achieve more. He served our country in the Army during the Vietnam War. In this, Jim gave far more than many will ever know. As his family, we want to thank all those who serve our country, giving the ultimate sacrifice for the freedom our precious Husband, Son, Father, and Papaw fought for in the Vietnam War. Through his service to our country, he achieved many awards including: the National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and the Marksmanship Metal which is the highest award weapons (M-16 Rifle), medal you can receive for weapons qualification and more.
There is far more to his story, yet just by acknowledging the man he was and still is, makes us proud we had an example of such love and honor for not just us, but his country.
He was preceded in death by his brothers, William "Billy" Lloyd and Robert Dale Canerdy.
Jim loved his family and I am honored to be his wife, Barbara. Prospering through life with his siblings: Russell A. Canerdy, Charles S. Canerdy Sr., and Joy A. Martin. He loved his children: James A. Canerdy & wife, Charlene, Julie A. Hatter & husband, Keith, Jason A. Canerdy and Renea, Jaclyn A. Canerdy, George “Bert” Suggs, Helen Williams & husband, Justin, Nigel W. Suggs, Heather L. Dillinger & husband, Lanney. He especially loved his grandchildren: Charles Cody Suggs, Katrina, Emy, & Greyson Canerdy, Abigail and Grace, Daniel, Samuel, Andrew, & Madison, Abby, & Emma Austin, Aleia Suggs, & Presley & Cayson Williams.
We invite family and friends to come be with us to “Celebrate the Life” of Jim Canerdy and we want to thank everyone who has been with us, through all the struggles and good times. Together we unite in love to remember the gift in which, God gave each of us through Jim.
Much appreciation; Barbara, Jaclyn, Cody, and family
Visitation and reception will be held from 5-9 p.m. Friday March 16, 2018 at family Funeral care. Funeral services celebrating Jim's life will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 17, 2018 also at Family Funeral care with burial to follow at Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Bartlett.
