Thomas Joseph Canning

June 15, 1947 - January 27, 2019

Obituary For Thomas Joseph Canning

Thomas Joseph Canning III, 71, of Raleigh, NC, died on January 27, 2019, after a long battle with Huntington’s Disease. He was born in Columbus, OH, on June 15, 1947, son of the late Thomas Joseph Canning Jr. and Rita Emery Canning.

After graduating from Rose High School in Greenville, NC, Tom attended North Carolina State University. After graduating with a B.S. in Industrial Engineering, he served in the United States Army for 2 years, 1 of which was spent stationed overseas in Turkey. Upon his return, Tom attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, graduating with an MBA from Kenan-Flagler Business School. He worked in the field of finance as a banker at NCNB (now Bank of America). Tom also developed an expertise in computers and was instrumental in creating the first computer network at the bank.

Tom had a number of passions. He loved to travel - some of his favorite destinations were Italy, Turkey, Japan, and his home state of North Carolina. He was an avid reader, enjoyed photography, and loved watching ACC basketball (go Wolfpack!). Tom also had a remarkable passion for all types of music, as was evidenced by his extensive collection of vinyl records.

Tom is survived by his loving children; daughter, Shelley Danser (Andy) of Durham, NC; and son, Philip Canning (Alejandra) of Charlotte, NC; grandchildren, Clara and Jack of Durham; and siblings, Tim Canning (Cindy), John Canning (Jocelyn), Joe Canning (Naomi), Mary Edmonson (Don), and Ann Lassiter (Ralph).

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 9th, 2019, at Resurrection United Methodist Church, 4705 Old Chapel Hill Rd, Durham, NC 27707. Family and friends are welcome to a gathering with food and refreshments immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Tom to HD Reach, www.hdreach.org. HD Reach is a North Carolina-based nonprofit working to improve the care and quality of life of those affected by Huntington’s Disease throughout the state.

Services

9 Feb

Memorial Service

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Resurrection United Methodist Church 4705 Old Chapel Hill Rd Durham, NC 27707 Get Directions »

by Obituary Assistant

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Condolences

September 01, 2020

Elaine Powell Swoboda Baer

Tom was a wonderful sweet, caring person. I haven't seen him in many years, but his eyes still sparkle with kindness. Prayers for the family. Elaine Powell Swoboda Baer
September 01, 2020

Burton Scott

Thanks be to God for the life of Tom Canning, the eldest brother among a special group of brothers and sisters who have devoted themselves to helping others. May you all find peace in your memories of your dear brother Tom.
September 01, 2020

Mary A Mowry

Phil and Shelley, We are saddened to hear of your fathers death. He was a good man who loved you very much. May your memories bring peace to your hearts. Mary and Mike Mowry
September 01, 2020

Christina Benson

Shelley and Phillip: I worked with your dad in Balance Sheet Management at NCNB years ago and have fond memories of him. He was always kind and inquisitive. I also recall how much joy he had when talking about the two of you. My thoughts are with you. Sincerely Christina Benson, Durham
September 01, 2020

Onyi Iweala

What a wonderful person. I feel very lucky to have known Tom and to have been able to worship with him at Resurrection UMC. He reminded me of my own dad and made me feel very welcome at Resurrection. I will miss him. My condolences to his family. - Onyi Iweala