James Paul Canant

“The song is ended, but the melody lingers on.” — Irving Berlin

James "Jim" Canant was born June 2, 1964 to Jim and Annette Canant and had two brothers, Adam (Jennifer) and Michael (deceased). He graduated from Hueytown High School in Birmingham, Alabama, and went on to earn his Journeyman and Master Electrician License from Associated Building Contractors. He used that knowledge throughout a long career working for Summit Electrical Construction, Inc. in Birmingham.

Jim accomplished many things in his life, but the things that stretched a smile from ear to ear were those he held close to his heart. His love and darling wife of almost 34 years, Marilyn Carra Canant, was his constant companion and better half, he would proudly tell you. Together they turned a house into a home and welcomed three children into their world: Megan, Zachary, and Ashley.

Those who knew him best called him Jimbo (among other things) and always looked forward to seeing him. His laugh and smile were reflections of his personality that drew people to him, often creating instant friendships, for he never met a stranger. He could ALWAYS make you laugh…sometimes at yourself. And, if you spent just enough time with him and caught him in just the right mood, you might have memories of Jimbo on the dance floor. Oh yes, he could dance with the best of them.

Aside from the family he adored, Jim’s passions included Alabama football, trips to the beach, gardening, reading and listening to music. Likely the front runner for what he enjoyed most was coaching youth sports where he touched a lot of young lives throughout the community. Football fields and baseball diamonds were the places where the spirited side of Jim’s personality came alive. He’d often head to the practice field with half the team in his truck because he made sure everyone had a ride. Kids remember those things, you know. Yes, kids remember coaches like Jimbo.

Others missing Jim alongside his parents, brother, wife and children include many nieces, nephews and cousins, as well as a slew of friends.

A Celebration of Life is indeed in order and planned for 6 p.m. on Tuesday, February 9, 2021 at Ridout’s Southern Heritage in Pelham, and you are invited to leave online condolences to the family on the website: www.SouthernHeritageFunerals.com.

Please carry this fitting passage in your heart as we all travel the journey of grief for our beloved Jimbo and others we love who have passed on to eternity. “It’s the circle of life, and it moves us all, through despair and hope, through faith and love, ’till we find our place, on the path unwinding.” From "The Lion King"