Dr. Fred Cornelius Cannon, D.D.S., age 71, passed away on August 4, 2026. Born in Hannibal, Missouri, he lived a life defined by service, faith, and dedication to family and community.
A graduate of Northeast Missouri State University with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry, Dr. Cannon proudly served in the United States Army from 1977 to 1990, attaining the rank of Major and earning two Army Commendation Medals. Following his military service, he owned and operated Cannon Dental Clinic in Columbia, Missouri, before beginning a distinguished career with the Department of Corrections, where he most recently served as Kansas Statewide Dental Director. He was also a member of the National Commission on Correctional Health Care.
On June 14, 1975, he married his childhood sweetheart, Pamela Byrd Cannon, in Vandalia, Missouri. Together they shared more than fifty years of love, faith, and family. Dr. Cannon enjoyed riding his Harley, drawing, and spending time with those he loved most. He was a member of St. George Orthodox Christian Cathedral and previously Second Missionary Baptist Church in Vandalia. He was also a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.
He is survived by his wife, Pamela Cannon; children, Samantha Cannon, Fred Cannon Jr., and Alisha Cannon; grandchildren, Jordan Cannon, Jayden Cannon, Isaiah Johnson, Trevon Cannon, and Bricen Cannon; great-granddaughter, Gianna Cannon; sisters, Kathy Willis and Kimberly Cannon-Bell (Harry); in-laws, Kenneth and Anna Byrd; two brother-in-laws and two sister-in laws; as well as five nieces, four nephews, three great-nephews, a host of cousins, and many dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, William "Billy" Cannon and Clarice Cannon, and two sisters.
Dr. Cannon's legacy of compassion, service, and devotion to others will be cherished and remembered by all whose lives he touched.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 1:00PM, on Saturday, August 15, 2026, with visitation one hour prior, at Lakeview Funeral Home, 12100 East 13th Street North, Wichita, Kansas 67206.
Memorial Contributions in Dr. Fred Cannon's memory can be made to the Second Missionary Baptist Church of Vandalia, MO Youth Program, 1501 US-54, Vandalia, MO 63382.
