Sylvia Williams Cannon

Sylvia Williams Cannon, a beloved member of her community and cherished mother and grandmother, passed away peacefully in her sleep on October 29, 2025 at the age of 91.

Born on October 15, 1934, in Marion, Virginia, Sylvia was the daughter of the late Crockett Melvin and Sarah Elizabeth Woods Williams.

Sylvia was the owner of Cannon’s Fabric in Emory, Virginia for many decades, where she never met a stranger and helped with the sewing needs of the community.  She was also known for her delicious homemade pies and chicken salad, which she lovingly prepared for years at the old Johnston Memorial Hospital Café.

A devoted and active member of her community, Sylvia served as both a Cub Scout and Girl Scout leader, guiding local youth with creativity, patience, and kindness. Whether organizing projects, teaching new skills, or simply offering encouragement, she made a lasting impact on countless children and families in the area.

Sylvia attended Greendale Chapel, where her faith and fellowship were central to her life. Over the years, the members of Greendale became more than friends — they became family. Their shared faith, laughter, and love enriched Sylvia’s life and gave her a deep sense of belonging.

In addition to her parents, Sylvia was preceded in death by her husband, Robert “Bobby” Cannon; her son, Larry Cannon; and her siblings, Pauline Honaker, Crockett Williams, Jr., Elvia Harris, and Lois Cross.

She leaves behind her loving family, including her children Ronald Cannon, Karen Cannon Leab, and Patty Cannon Jackson; daughter-in-law, Beverly Cannon; grandchildren Danan Leab, Jonathan Cannon, Chad Cannon, Joshua Leab, Nikki Plaster, Michelle Roller, Sara Seacrist, and Jennifer Murdock; and a multitude of great-grandchildren who were the joys of her life.  She also leaves behind several nieces and nephews who she loved like her own. 

Sylvia will be remembered for her kind heart, gentle spirit, and the joy she found in life’s simple pleasures. She had a sweet tooth that never quit, could listen to Elvis and hymns for hours and could always win at Bingo. Her greatest happiness came from time spent with her family, especially her great-grandchildren, who always made her eyes light up. The family takes comfort in knowing that her laughter, love, and generous spirit will continue to echo through the generations she so deeply cherished.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, November 1, 2025, from 1:00 P.M. until 2:00 P.M. at Greendale Chapel in Abingdon, Virginia. A funeral service will follow at 2:00 P.M. with Rev. Jerry A. Eggers officiating. Interment will follow, going in procession, to Forest Hills Memorial Gardens in Abingdon, Virginia.

Pallbearers will be her beloved grandsons and family members. 

Frost Funeral Home and Cremation Services is honored to serve the family of Ms. Sylvia Williams Cannon.