James T. Cannon, Jr., age 76 of Wilmington, DE passed away after a prolonged battle against Alzheimer's. His loving wife and family were by his side when he left this life on May 31, 2015.Jim was born in Wilmington, DE to the late James and Jean Cannon. He was in the final class to graduate in 1956 from the old Salesianum School at 8th & West Street in Wilmington. Jim was particularly happy that his two sons, Mark and David are also graduates of Salesianum. In addition, two of his grandsons, Garrett & Chad are presently enrolled in Salesianum. Always concerned that each of his children receive the same opportunities he saw to it that his daughters Theresa, Debbie and Diana received excellent educations at St. Mark's High School in Wilmington. Jim attended the University of Delaware and credited Dr. William Markell with encouraging him to attend IRS training in Washington, DC. Jim believed this put him on a successful business career path specializing in tax work. After leaving the IRS he was a Trust Officer with Wilmington Trust Co. Eventually, he partnered with other CPA's or was the single owner of successful firms.After graduating from UD, Jim & Nannette began their life together driving across the country to Seattle. From there they flew to Wildwood Station, Alaska where Jim served his Army tour. Jim was active in the Delaware Society of CPA's, holding various offices including that of President in 1980-1981. He also served on various business boards. Jim was active in St. John the Beloved Parish serving as Eucharistic Minister and Trustee. He was also a member of the St. Vincent dePaul Society. Jim began his love of golf by caddying at various golf clubs in Wilmington beginning as a young student. He was a long time member of Cavaliers Country Club. He also enjoyed fishing, horse racing, swimming, walking or just sitting on the beach with his family. Jim was truly a family man, and his life was providing for his family. He was happy that each of his five children earned a college degree.Jim is survived by his wife of 54 years, Nannette, and his much loved children including his daughters, Theresa Kauffman and husband Shawn, Diana DePaul and husband Tony, and sons; Mark and wife Pat, and son David. Jim is also survived by his beloved sister, Margaret Cannon and husband Rick; and son-in-law Peter Irvine. He also leaves a brother, Joseph and two sisters, Mary Elizabeth and Catherine. Jim was predeceased by his parents and daughter, Deborah Irvine. Jim loved being Pop-Pop to his 8 grandchildren: Andrew Irvine, Alexandra Irvine, Michael DePaul, Jamie DePaul, Shay Cannon, Garrett Cannon, Chad Cannon and Liam Kauffman. Each of these grandchildren held a special place in his heart. Jim enjoyed teaching his grandchildren swimming, golfing, fishing and crabbing. It was his joy.Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, June 5th at 12:30 PM at St. John the Beloved Church, 907 Milltown Road, Wilmington. Friends and family are invited to visitation on Thursday evening between 6 and 8 PM at Mealey Funeral Home, 2509 Limestone Road, Wilmington. Interment will be private.The family wishes to thank the staff at Heartland Home Hospice and also the staff at Manor Care Foulk Road for their comforting and gentle care. In lieu of flowers, family requests donations to "Heartland Hospice", 5661 Ochletree Lane, Wilmington, DE 19808; "Alzheimer's Association", 240 N. James Street #100A, Newport, DE 19804; "Salesianum High School", 1801 N Broom St, Wilmington, DE 19802. MealeyFuneralHomes.com (302) 652-5913