Cullen “June Bug” Cannon Jr

Cullen Bryant Cannon Jr., affectionately known as “June Bug” to those who loved him, entered this world on December 7, 1959, in Chicago, Illinois; a city whose rhythm and spirit would forever echo in his own. He was the fifth of six children born to Cullen B. Cannon Sr. and Louise Perry, both of whom preceded him in death, and whose legacy of love and strength lived on through him.

From an early age, Cullen’s life carried a quiet energy - one that revealed itself, in laughter shared with friends, and in a growing love for sports and music that would stay with him always. He began his education at Helen M. Hefferan Elementary School and continued on to West Garfield Upper Grade Center, where his youthful determination and natural athleticism began to shine.

At Charles A. Prosser Vocational High School, Cullen found both his stride and his stage. Joining the basketball team in his sophomore year, he played with heart and pride through his senior year, earning not only trophies but the respect and admiration of teammates and peers. Yet even beyond the court, he carried a presence, steady, warm, and unmistakably his own.

After graduating, Cullen continued his journey at Illinois State University in 1978. It was there that another side of him blossomed. Known as “C.C.” among friends, he brought people together not only through conversation,

but through music - DJing college gatherings where laughter, rhythm, and connection filled the room. Though his time in college was brief, the imprint he left on those around him was lasting.

Cullen later dedicated over thirteen years of loyal service to Warshawsky & Company, a testament to his work ethic and steadfast nature. Yet, if you were to ask him, his proudest and most cherished role began in 1993, when he became a father. In that moment, his life found a deeper meaning, one rooted in love, responsibility, and quiet devotion. That love only grew as he embraced the role of grandfather, carrying forward a legacy of care and warmth to the next generation.

Whether known as “June Bug” or “C.C.,” Cullen was, above all, a gentle and generous soul. He found joy in life’s simplest offerings; time spent with family, conversations with friends, the steady comfort of music, and the thrill of cheering on his beloved Chicago teams. He was the kind of man who showed up and who offered a helping hand without hesitation, especially to the elders in his community. He gave freely of himself without expectation of return.

To know Cullen was to know kindness. To be in his presence was to feel seen, welcomed, and valued. His humility, his laughter, and his quiet strength were gifts he gave to the world every day.

On March 29, 2026, at 3:15 p.m., Cullen took his final bow and danced up the stair ways of heaven to eternal rest at the University of Chicago Medicine. Though he has departed from this earthly life, the love he gave and the lives he touched remain, enduring and ever-present.

He leaves to cherish his memory: His loving daughter, Samantha; step-daughter, Angelique; honorary daughters, Tequilla, Tamara & Doris; his beloved grandchildren, Bri’Elle and Brayden Cullen; his three older sisters, Veronica “Ronnie”, Linda “Cookie”, and Brenda “Candy”; two brothers who preceded him in death, Gerald and Baby Boy Cannon; honorary grandchildren, Danaria and Demarion; long time girlfriend, Theresa; grandpuppy, Coco Chanel; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and dear friends whose lives are richer for having known him.

And in every shared story, every familiar song, and every quiet act of kindness, the spirit of “June Bug” lives on.