Family, Friends & Fellow Officers Remember...

Kevin,

I thank you for your support. I really am touched by your leaving such kind thoughts on Gene's page. I am becoming more nervous about this weekend. You see this weekend will be two "firsts" for me. It will be my "first" COPS function and it will be my "first" time back at the zoo since I went with Gene in 2002. I feel I am ready but I am still quite nervous.

I do look forward to meeting you and your family as well as some other survivors.
GOd Bless you and your family,

Michele Shirey
love- Dpty Gene Wright II
Berkeley COunty Sheriff's Dept., SC
Eternally On Watch - Nov. 19,2002

Michele

June 20, 2005

Hey Bro.,
How are things in Heaven? I'm sure they are wonderful. Well a few things have happened since you left. Jacob has come to live with me. Now Caleb and Jacob can be together like you and I were. I see a lot of us in them; they are, of course, the next generation of Cannon boys. I took them to see Star Wars a couple of weeks ago and they were riding in the back seat talking to each other. I looked over at the empty passenger side seat beside me and wished that you could have been there too; yet had the feeling you were. We have remained in the church and I even sang last Sunday in the choir. I am surprised no one ran out. The boys gave me cards and some Star Wars action figures for Father's Day. It was very sweet. I know your are looking down and seeing the changes that are being made in my life and are proud. I want to thank God and you both for what you are doing for me concerning the boys, the way I should live, my everything else. I know you are watching over us all and that it won't be long before we see each other again. It nice to know that this is only temporary and that it won't be long before the wait is over. Your death on earth has changed my life and countless others. You have done well. I placed a memorial sticker on my back glass for you so all who see it will know you were someone and that you are loved. I also added "God bless the Law Enforcement" to keep all your brothers in blue in all who see its thoughts and prayers. I hope you have met some of the other fallen heroes now on God's watch. I have met some of the loved ones left down here through this site. It has been very comforting to exchange messages with them. I am going to the first C.O.P.S. meeting, since you left, next Saturday at the zoo. I know you'll be there along with all the other fallen heroes. I am trying to put some pictures of you on CDs to send to Dad, Brian, and Aunt Shirley. I seem to be having a hard time getting them to burn though. How about helping me out? OK. I wish you could have seem Hayden. He looks just like Brian. I am taking the boys to Bush Gardens in two weeks to ride the rides. Well I must go for now. Always remember that I love you. I hope to see you soon.
Love always,
K-K

Kevin Cannon
Keith's Brother

June 20, 2005

I'am so sorry for you lost.I lost my best friend/roomate 2 1/2 years ago he was only 23 Adam Fleasher e.o.w 1/13/03.I often wonder why god would take them so young but now i know he only takes the BEST!! I will keep you in my prayers

Holly Spikes
Charlton County S.O Ga

June 17, 2005

Hello Kevin,
Thank you so much for your thoughtful reflection on Gene's page. I am very thankful to you. It warms my heart. I visited Gene's page on June 10, which would have been his 30th birthday and was touched by your kind words. We are all here for each other whenever you need someone.
I'm sure Gene is enjoying his time with Keith. From what I have read here they are probably getting along very well up there. Gene was a fun loving guy, who did whatever he could to ensure people were happy. He was always making me happy. I miss him so much now as I am sure you miss Keith.
They say things happen for a reason...I dont see the reason for taking away our officers...I guess when we know the reason we will understand...
COPS here in SC seems to be very supportive of us survivors. They send me newsletters and invitations all the time to their functions. However next weekend will be my first event that I will attend. I have not been able to bring myself to attend anything yet, but I believe now I am ready. I guess eventually we all realize we are ready to meet other survivors face to face.
Sorry I carried on so much. Please know if you ever need anything dont hesitate to ask.

Michele Shirey
Girlfriend-love-Deputy Gene Wright II
Berkeley County Sheriff's Department,SC
EOW 11-19-2002

PS.I read a different meaning for EOW...instead of End Of Watch...Eternally On Watch... I recieved the newsletter with this in it on Gene's 30th Birthday and it helped me...so I thought I'd pass it on to you.

Our officers are Eternally On Watch

michele shirey

June 13, 2005

A Letter From Heaven

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say.
But first of all to let you know, that I arrived okay.

I'm writing this from Heaven. Here I dwell with God above. Here, there's no more tears of sadness; Here's just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight. Remember that I am with you every morning, noon, and night.

That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through. God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you.

It's good to have you back again, you were missed while you were gone. As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.

I need you here so badly, you are a part of my plan. There is so much that we can do, to help our mortal man."

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do. And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.

And when you lie in bed at night the day's chores put to flight. God and I are closest to you...in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years. Because you're only human, they are bound to bring you tears.

But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain. Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned but if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.

But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you NOW, than I ever was before.

There are rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb; but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.

It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too; that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who is in sorrow and pain; then you can say to God at night..."My day was not in vain."

And now I am contented...that my life was worthwhile. Knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low; just lend a hand to pick them up, as on your way you go.

When you're walking down the street and you've got me on your mind; I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go...from that body to be free. Remember you're not going...you're coming here to me.


I hope everyone who loved and knew Keith will find some comfort in reading this. God Bless you Keith. We will love you forever!

Anonymous

June 9, 2005

Rest in peace D.S. Cannon. Thank you for making a difference!!
God speed.

Officer
Montgomery County, MD

June 9, 2005

Keith had been a part of my family for seven years. He was my daughter's fiance. The love that the two of them shared was a love that everyone dreams of having in their life. Keith and Kyleigh were so happy. When you were with the two of them; you could feel and see the strong respect and love that they had for each other. Keith had just bought a home that they had moved into. He was so proud of it. He had a plan for everything he did in his life (except on May 4, 2005)

Keith touched so many lives in his short time on earth. He had a smile and a heart that was infectious. He had such a passion for his job and for his future with Kyleigh. When he would talk about his job or Kyleigh you could see the excitment.

Keith has left a footprint on my heart and everyone that knew him. God needed a special angel on May 4th; and
there was no one more special than Keith.

Each day I thank God for bringing Keith into our lives and making the last seven years the most wonderful part of my daughter's life.

He will always be with us and watching over all of us. His family can hold their heads high; knowing that Keith was the special loving person that he was in his short life.

Keith, we will always love you for what you brought to our lives.

Mother of Keith's Fiance


I can't think one anymore special than Keith.

June 8, 2005

Keith,

It was a pleasure and honor to serve with you. Everyone always looked forward to seeing your smile and enthusiastic attitude when we rode on your shift. Thanks for all your mentorship and friendship. You will be missed and remembered always. To your family goes all our heartfelt sympathy and admiration. God Bless you all.

Reserve Deputies
Richland County Sheriffs Department

June 7, 2005

To Keith's loved one's I send my love and condolences. I have the priveledge of saying that I was Keiths' training officer. I must say that he was a joy to train. He was one of the most optimistic and respectful people I have ever met. Never did he have a bad thing to say about anyone, and he brought so much to the squad and everyone he worked with. He loved his job and the people he worked with. Keith...I miss you Brother!! I know that you are with our Lord now. The family is taken care of. I WILL see you later C-note!

Stump

Cpl. E. Bright
Richland County Sheriff's Department

June 7, 2005

Thank you Deputy Cannon for your job well done. You will not be forgotten. My thoughts and prayers go with you as you enter the Kingdom of Heaven.

Sgt. B. Grove
Florence Police Explorers, SC

June 5, 2005

Our thoughts and prayers go out to This Officer, as well as the Family, Friends, Department and Community.

This is a loss that will never be forgotten. Hours will turn into days, days turn into weeks, weeks into months and months into years but, the difference that these officers have made will last forever.

We lost Our Deputy Morris Taylor on September 14, 2002. When he joined the other Angels in Blue.

God Bless Our Law Enforcement Officers and Those Who Love Them.

Jack & Tracy Van Dolah
Former LEO/U.S.M.C. & Wife in Sutherlin, Oregon

June 4, 2005

1 corintians 13:4-8

4 Love is patient and kind; love is not jealous or boastful; 5 it is not arrogant or rude. Love does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; 6 it does not rejoice at wrong, but rejoices in the right. 7 Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. 8 Love never ends

Deputy Cannon, thank you for your service and dedication. You will be missed and never forgotten. May your family, fiancee, and everyone who loves you stay strong in the memories and love you shared with them.

I lost my fiancée, Scott Stewart, in August of 2002. There not a day that goes by without him in my heart and mind. I understand the pain your love must feel from being ripped from you to soon. The support and love from others who understand have helped tremendously.

To Kyleigh, if you need anything please contact me along with other fiancees, girlfriends and significant others. We are here to help and listen. A search on yahoo groups will bring you to us. Just enter the below phase typed together in the search section.

I’m so sorry you and Keith’s family had to join our “survivor” family, but we are here for you if you need us. You will find the survivor family, unfortunately, is a big one and there is support for everyone who needs and wants it.

To everyone Keith loves, always remember as long as your heart beats Keith will be with you.


Hugs,
Monica
Fiancee Scott Stewart EOW 8-11-02 Detroit

OfficerDownSignificantOthers

May 25, 2005

Hello,
When I visi t this page periodically it is to help me heal. I lost the love of my life Deputy Marion Eugene "Gene" Wright II on November 19, 2002. He was killed while assisting someone chnage a tire. I know this time right now is extremely difficult for the family, fiance, and friends of Deputy Cannon. But please keep in mind we are all in the same family now and we are willing to listen and to help each other. I am truly sorry for the loss of another officer.
SOmeone sent me this song once and I posted it on Gene's relflections. I want to leave it here for you Deputy Cannon and for your survivors. For all of us who are here knowing you are up in Heaven with Gene and all the other officers we have lost.
"Holes in the Floor of Heaven"
by Steve Wariner

One day shy eight years old
Grandma passed away
I was a broken hearted little boy,
Blowing out that birthday cake

How i cried when the sky let go
With a cold and lonesome rain
Momma smiled said don't be sad child
Grandma's watchin you today

'cause there's holes in the floor of heaven
And her tears are pourin' down
That's how you know she's watchin'
Wishin' she could be here now
And sometimes if you'e lonely
Just remember she can see
There's holes in the floor of heaven
And she's watchin' over you and me

Seasons come and seasons go
Nothin' stays the same
I grew up fell in love
Met a girl who took my name

Year by year we made a life
In this sleepy little town
I thought we'd grow old together
Lord i sure do miss her now

But there's holes in the floor of heaven
and her tears are pouring down

That's how you know she's watchin'
Wishin' she could be here now
And sometimes when i'm lonely
I remember she can see
There's holes in the floor of heaven
And she's watchin' over you and me

Well my little girl is 23
I walk her down the aisle
It's a shame her mom can't be here now
To see her lovely smile

They throw the rice
I catch her eye
As the rain starts comin' down
She takes my hand says daddy don't be sad 'cause
I know momma's watchin' now

And there's holes in the floor of heaven
And her tears are pourin down
That's how you know she's watchin'
Wishin' she could be here now
And sometimes when i'm lonely
I remember she can see
There's holes in the floor of heaven
And she's watchin' over you and me

Watchin' over you and me
Watchin' over you and me
Watchin' over you and me

The one thing I hold onto is our officers are watching over us...

My prayers are with you,
Michele
Girlfriend Deputy Gene Wright II
Berkeley COunty Sheriff's Department, SC
EOW November 19, 2002

May 24, 2005

IT IS SOOOOOO SAD TO READ ALL OF THE GOOD THINGS PEOPLE HAVE WROTE ABOUT THIS YOUNG GUY.OUR FAMILY KNOWS THE PAIN YA'LL ARE GOING THROUGH,WE LOST JOSH ABOUT THE SAME TIME LAST YEAR, HE WAS ONLY 20 yrs OLD.I LOOK AT THIS GUY AND SEE SO MUCH "LIFE"! WE DONT UNDERSTAND, BUT GOD DOES,I DID,NT KNOW THIS MAN BUT,WHO EVER RAISED HIM MADE A VERY FINE LOOKING YOUNG MAN.I'M SURE HE WAS A GOOD FRIEND TO MANY PEOPLE.OUR FAMILY WILL BE PRAYING FOR YOUR LOSS.

APRIL BLYLER
JOSHUA BLYLER'S SISTER-INLAW E.O.W 5/2/04

May 24, 2005

Kevin,

Thank you for leaving the reflection for Joey. I meant so much to me when I checked his memorial this morning. My heart goes out to you. I felt such a connection with Keith's . I suppose it has to do with the fact that we are all from Florence, and he had a fiancee' It was so ironic that you remember when they were looking for Joey's killer. I will never forget that week as long as I live. I know you remember how scared everyone in Florence was for those few days.
I was reading the reflection you sent to Keith recently, and it sounded like he was a prankster. I also saw where you mentioned "Carolina Cup". Joey and I met on the weekend of the Cup and he was killed the weekend before the Cup. I know Joey was waiting to welcome Keith into heaven, and I'm quite sure they are now quite the buddies. Joey was a HUGE prankster himself. I hope they are having the time of their lives. Joey and Keith made the ultimate sacrifice and I believe they deserve nothing less but the best from us. I have vowed to always keep Joey's memory alive. Please let Keith's fiancee' know that I'm just a phone call away. We also have a strong support group available for fiancee's of fallen officers. There are about 16 of us involved in the group right now and it may help her.
I am glad to see that you made it to the ODMP page to see how much Keith was loved and appreciated as an officer.

Take care and know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Dana Moody
Fiancee of Deputy Joey Rodgers
eow 4-9-97

Dana Moody
Fiancee' of Deputy Joey Rodgers

May 23, 2005

As you know my fiance was killed in a traffic accident almost three weeks ago. He died doing the job he loved. I had always admired his passion for law enforment and everytime he put on that uniform, he did it with pride. A part of me went with him that day but part of him will always live on in my heart as I know that he will in many others. To the Richland County Sheriff's Department, you were his family and now I am proud to call you mine. There are no words to express the love and support that his family has received. We always knew that Keith was special, but we just never knew the impact his life had on so many. The service was extraordinary and he deserved every bit of it. His family and I will take care of each other and make it through this difficult time together. We are just fortunate to have had him in our lives for the time that we did. To his fellow brothers...you now have an angel in blue to watch over and protect you. God bless you all. Rest in peace my angel until I see you again when the Lord calls me home. I love you forever....

Kyleigh Chandler
Fiance to Deputy Byron Keith Cannon

May 23, 2005

Hey Bro.,
What to say. Well it has been two weeks and two days since Sheriff Lott and the deputies from Marion County came to the house to tell us the news about your wreck. I really didn't know what to think and I'm just starting to get my head cleared. All I can think about is the last time I saw you at your house; how we hung out and went and got the pizza, how you looked at me as Kyleigh came from down the hall and said "normally my baby would have me some dinner cooked, but that's ok; she's been a washin and a cleanin" and you leaned over and kissed her on the cheek. I know you loved her so much and I know she loved you just as much. I remember the night before the Carolina Cup, when we went to Wal-Mart and how you picked at me for giving that girl our buggy. I'll never forget you looking at her and saying, "sure is a nice looking buggy" and how about when you made the cell ring while I was in the bathroom. I didn't think you would ever stop laughing about that one. You remember Jason saying, "get in the SUV Todd?" at the Cup. For years you and I really only had each other to play with. We would team up to aggrivate mom; we had a connection when it came to cutting up and I will miss that. We were going to do beats and try to sell them. I don't think I've turned the keyboard on since you passed. I want you to know how proud I am of you. I always was and will be. I'll take care of mom and Kyleigh for you. Kyleigh is taking care of Cy. I don't worry about where you are, but it's hard not having you around. I read the email that you had sent me before I went to your house at your service. Everyone thought is was funny. I wanted them to have some sense of what kind of person you were. That was just one of many great moments I could have shared. I'm glad we were close. You were the best brother a guy could ever have. I love you and can't wait to see you on the other side. Tell papa and everone else I said hey. One day we will all be reunited in the Kingdom of the Lord.

Kevin Cannon
Keith's brother

May 20, 2005

Blessed are the pure in heart for they will see God. Matthew 5:8
You served God while you were alive and yet even in your death, you life still brings more and more people closer to God. I thank you for the wonderful person that you are. I promise to be there for your family, ya'll have always been my second family. The world is a better place because of all the love that you gave. I will see you again one day in Heaven.

Rebecca
Marion, SC

May 19, 2005

Rest in Peace.
Thank you Deputy Byron Keith Cannon for a job well done. Please continue to watch over us and protect us as only you can. You will forever be at our side and in our hearts.

RICHLAND COUNTY SHERIFF"S DEPARTMENT

May 18, 2005

My name is Annie "Teenie" Cannon, and I am the very proud mother of Deputy Keith Cannon. As you know, Keith was killed in a tragic accident while on duty on 5/4/05. The many messages of sympathy and kind words that we read on this website truly blessed our hearts. Many of you did not know Keith, many of you did. To those who knew him, you know what a treasure he was, and I know you agree that Heaven has received a special saint. To those who did not know him personally, you helped Keith's family to understand the true brotherhood of law enforcement. We have never witnessed such love, respect, and togetherness. Law Enforcement from every area and every state came together to minister to Keith's family and each other. To all who read this who are still serving, we wish you success and longevity. May God bless and protect you. To those who read this who have lost loved ones, we lift you up in prayer.
We wanted to acknowledge your comments, concerns, and prayers. As you know, there are long, difficult days ahead. Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers, and we will certainly remember you in ours. God speed. "Blessed are the Peacemakers."

Annie "Teenie" Cannon
Keith's mother

May 18, 2005

Cannon, my friend, we will never forget you. You have done a great deed to your community and paid the ultimate price. Our prayer's are with you and your family. I'm personally glad to have met you and spent 9 weeks with you at the acadamy. Class 441, and all of your brothers will never forget you. Thanks for all that you taught me by being such a respectable person. Rest in Peace my friend.

PFC. Michael Barfield
Lake View Police Department

May 18, 2005

DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS POLICE
OFFICERS SEND OUR CONDOLENCES. OUR
THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH DEPUTY
CANNON, HIS FAMILY AND CO-WORKERS.

GOD BLESS...

PO ERNEST G. PENN
DEPT. OF VETERANS AFFAIRS POLICE - BUFFALO, NEW YORK

May 14, 2005

Thank you for your service. You will not be forgotten. Please watch over all of your brothers and sisters in blue. God Bless.

Police Officer
Los Angeles Airport Police

May 14, 2005

My fiancé, Dennis McElderry, was the first law enforcement casualty of 2003. Dennis was a Deputy Sheriff with the Davis County Sheriff's Office in southeast Iowa. Dennis died doing a job he loved, just as I'm sure Keith did. It saddens me to know that Dennis was not the first to die in the line of duty, nor will he and Keith be the last to die this way.

Having gone through the pain of losing Dennis I can truly understand and feel the pain that Deputy Cannon's family, friends, and co-workers must be feeling. My heart goes out to you all, especially to his fiancée. No one can truly understand the pain of our loss until they've walked in our shoes. I wish I could give you a few words of wisdom to help you through this tough time, but there isn't anything I can really say or do to make the situation better. Just know that my thoughts are with you. If you ever need anything please do not hesistate to contact me. Dennis' department will always know how to reach me.

Please accept my condolences on behalf of the McElderry family and remember that Keith is part of huge law enforcement family. If you ever need anything any number of them will be there for you (as I've quickly found out!) From reading the many reflections posted here, I am certain Keith was well respected and well loved. You were blessed to have had him in your life, even for a short time.

Thank you Deputy Cannon for a job well done and for helping to make this world a safer place for us all. Please say "hello" to my fiancé Dennis for me.

Wishing you brighter and better days,

Jocelyne :)

Jocelyne Brar (Winnipeg, MB Canada)
Fiancée of Deputy Sheriff Dennis Ray McElderry (EOW: 01/03/03)

May 13, 2005

Deputy Sheriff Cannon, Family and Richland County Sheriff's Dept. My thoughts and prayers are with you. God bless you all. Deputy Cannon you will never be forgotten. Rest in peace brother.

Officer Bob Swope#5609
Olmsted Falls Police Dept. Ohio

May 12, 2005