Obituary for James Edward McCann
James Edward McCann, also known as “Sonny” of Bowie, Maryland, went to be with his Lord and Savior on April 17, 2024. James was born in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, on September 4, 1939, and was the beloved son of James T. and Fannie McCann.
Educated in the North Carolina public school system, James graduated from Nash County Training School in 1958. On October 8, 1962, he exchanged vows with his high school sweetheart, Dorothy Mae Hagans, embarking on a journey of love and companionship that would span a lifetime.
Throughout his life, James was a loving and devoted father to his two children, Kelvin Edward and Sherri Deann. His legacy of love, strength, and integrity will forever live on in their hearts.
Answering the call to serve his country, James enlisted in the United States Army on April 26, 1962. He courageously served his nation during the Vietnam War, demonstrating unwavering dedication and valor. His exceptional service earned him two citations for the Air Medal, a testament to his bravery and commitment to duty. James was honorably discharged on April 24, 1964, having fulfilled his duty with honor and distinction.
In pursuit of new opportunities, James and his beloved wife, Dorothy, relocated to Washington, DC, in 1964. There, James embarked on a dedicated career as a truck driver for the United Parcel Service, serving tirelessly for over 30 years until his well-deserved retirement in December 1999. Throughout his tenure, James earned numerous safe driving honors, showcasing his commitment to safety and professionalism on the road. His exemplary record and unwavering dedication led to his induction into the prestigious UPS Circle of Honors, a testament to his outstanding contributions and service to the company.
James was a man of warmth and sociability, known for his gift of gab and his ability to converse with anyone he met. His generous nature endeared him to all who crossed his path, and he leaves behind a legacy of kindness and camaraderie. James was very particular in all of his ways; he was very neat and extremely organized. From how he read the weekly circular to create his grocery list, to keeping folders and tabs on any business dealings he made, down to even labeling his personal items, James maintained meticulous order in every aspect of his life. He had a keen eye for detail and would immediately notice if something was out of place. In addition to his organizational skills, James was also incredibly creative and had a knack for building and repairing small things around the home.
A devout and faithful man, James found solace and community at the Largo Community Church, where he became a member on April 23, 1995. Even after he retired from UPS, James continued to serve his church community, dedicating his time and skills to maintenance duties. He and his beloved wife, Dorothy, also led the Greeters Ministry for many years, warmly welcoming fellow worshippers and visitors alike.
James was predeceased by his parents, James and Fannie McCann, sister Hazel Bethea (Frank), and brother Gregory. Precious memories will be shared by those he left behind: his devoted and loving wife Dorothy McCann, son Kelvin McCann, daughter Sherri Dickerson (Odell, Jr.), brothers Percy McCann (Sharon), George McCann (Janice), and Lorenzo McCann (Lenez), sisters Cathy Roberson (Morris) and Brenda Harrison (Michael), grandchildren Odell, III, Jalen DeAnn, & Caleb James, and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.
James touched the lives of many and will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his soul find eternal rest, and may his memory continue to bring comfort and joy to those who mourn his loss.
Educated in the North Carolina public school system, James graduated from Nash County Training School in 1958. On October 8, 1962, he exchanged vows with his high school sweetheart, Dorothy Mae Hagans, embarking on a journey of love and companionship that would span a lifetime.
Throughout his life, James was a loving and devoted father to his two children, Kelvin Edward and Sherri Deann. His legacy of love, strength, and integrity will forever live on in their hearts.
Answering the call to serve his country, James enlisted in the United States Army on April 26, 1962. He courageously served his nation during the Vietnam War, demonstrating unwavering dedication and valor. His exceptional service earned him two citations for the Air Medal, a testament to his bravery and commitment to duty. James was honorably discharged on April 24, 1964, having fulfilled his duty with honor and distinction.
In pursuit of new opportunities, James and his beloved wife, Dorothy, relocated to Washington, DC, in 1964. There, James embarked on a dedicated career as a truck driver for the United Parcel Service, serving tirelessly for over 30 years until his well-deserved retirement in December 1999. Throughout his tenure, James earned numerous safe driving honors, showcasing his commitment to safety and professionalism on the road. His exemplary record and unwavering dedication led to his induction into the prestigious UPS Circle of Honors, a testament to his outstanding contributions and service to the company.
James was a man of warmth and sociability, known for his gift of gab and his ability to converse with anyone he met. His generous nature endeared him to all who crossed his path, and he leaves behind a legacy of kindness and camaraderie. James was very particular in all of his ways; he was very neat and extremely organized. From how he read the weekly circular to create his grocery list, to keeping folders and tabs on any business dealings he made, down to even labeling his personal items, James maintained meticulous order in every aspect of his life. He had a keen eye for detail and would immediately notice if something was out of place. In addition to his organizational skills, James was also incredibly creative and had a knack for building and repairing small things around the home.
A devout and faithful man, James found solace and community at the Largo Community Church, where he became a member on April 23, 1995. Even after he retired from UPS, James continued to serve his church community, dedicating his time and skills to maintenance duties. He and his beloved wife, Dorothy, also led the Greeters Ministry for many years, warmly welcoming fellow worshippers and visitors alike.
James was predeceased by his parents, James and Fannie McCann, sister Hazel Bethea (Frank), and brother Gregory. Precious memories will be shared by those he left behind: his devoted and loving wife Dorothy McCann, son Kelvin McCann, daughter Sherri Dickerson (Odell, Jr.), brothers Percy McCann (Sharon), George McCann (Janice), and Lorenzo McCann (Lenez), sisters Cathy Roberson (Morris) and Brenda Harrison (Michael), grandchildren Odell, III, Jalen DeAnn, & Caleb James, and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.
James touched the lives of many and will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his soul find eternal rest, and may his memory continue to bring comfort and joy to those who mourn his loss.