James Arthur Canady passed away December 10th, 2016. Art was born in Whiteville, NC August 6, 1941. He was preceded in death by his father, James Russell Canady, his mother, Ila Reeves Canady, and sister, Virginia Carol Canady. Art is survived by his two daughters, Valerie Canady Grissom ("Tex" John) of Hampstead and Dee Ivey of Wilmington. Two grandchildren, Justin Grissom of Hampstead and Kaylee Sellars of London, England. One great grandchild, Dallas Grissom of Hampstead. Two brothers, Joe Canady (Kathy) of Wilmington and Robert Canady of Rocky Point, NC. Art was proud to serve his country and joined the Airforce in 1961. He was an Air Policeman and trained sentry dogs. Later he worked as a deputy with Brunswick Co. Sheriff's Office. When moving back to Wilmington, he was instrumental in beginning the NH County K-9 unit under Sheriff Groman. His passion was training dogs. He built a dog training area which housed 10 German Shepherds. Art enjoyed the outdoors and spending time on the ocean fishing with family. He liked to tell fishing stories of his dad and brothers on the river. Art moved to Little River, SC. He had a Seawall Construction Co. for 8 years and retired. He enjoyed his friends at Ricky's Dockside where a lot of fish stories were told. When his health started to decline, Valerie and Dee moved him back to Wilmington for love and support he needed. A recent stroke declined his health. The family is deeply grateful for the love and prayers. Funeral to be held on January 21st at 3 p.m. at Wrightsville United Methodist Church, Wrightsville Beach. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the K-9 Dogs for Bullet Proof Vests.


Published in the Wilmington Star-News on Jan. 15, 2017