Sacramento Community Mourns the Loss of Philanthropist Margretta Cannon
Table of Contents
- 1. Sacramento Community Mourns the Loss of Philanthropist Margretta Cannon
- 2. Early Life and Family Roots
- 3. A Journey to California and a Lifelong Partnership
- 4. Entrepreneurship and Commitment to Children
- 5. Founding Haven of Hope and Supporting the Homeless
- 6. A Devout Faith and Active Church Involvement
- 7. Family and Legacy
- 8. The Enduring Importance of Community Involvement
- 9. Frequently Asked Questions About Margretta Cannon
- 10. What specific challenges faced by marginalized communities in Sacramento inspired Margretta Cannon’s lifelong passion for advocacy and equality?
- 11. Sacramento Honors Margretta Cannon: Celebrating teh Life of a “True Queen”
- 12. A Legacy of Community Leadership and Empowerment
- 13. Early Life and Rise to Prominence
- 14. key Contributions to Sacramento
- 15. Championing Civil Rights & Social Justice
- 16. supporting Black-Owned Businesses & Economic Empowerment
- 17. Mentorship and Youth Development
- 18. the “True Queen” Title: A Reflection of Respect and Admiration
- 19. Current Commemorative Events (October 2025)
- 20. Continuing the Legacy: How to Get Involved
Sacramento, California – The city is in mourning following the passing of Margretta Patrice Cannon, a dedicated entrepreneur, caregiver, and community volunteer, who died on September 26th at the age of 74. CannonS life was characterized by a profound commitment to assisting those less fortunate, leaving an indelible mark on the Sacramento area.
Early Life and Family Roots
Born June 9, 1951, in Georgetown, South Carolina, Margretta Cannon was the eldest of eight children born to William and Rose Jackson (Green). Her upbringing, marked by both hardship and resilience, shaped her future dedication to service. A pivotal moment in her childhood was the loss of her father at the age of five, requiring her and her siblings to contribute to the family’s well-being from a young age.
The family frequently watched movies from their porch, creating cherished memories. Cannon attended Howard high School where she honed her musical talents, playing the clarinet in the school band. She also assisted her mother with various jobs, including cleaning hotel rooms and working at her grandmother’s beauty shop and candy store in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, fostering a strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit.
A Journey to California and a Lifelong Partnership
In 1969,cannon’s family relocated to California,settling first in lompoc and later in Sacramento. It was in Sacramento that she met and married Mardeio Cannon in 1998, embarking on a 27-year journey of partnership, ministry, and global exploration.
“God sent me an angel and I’m blessed for it,” mardeio Cannon remarked, highlighting the deep connection thay shared. The couple travelled extensively,visiting destinations such as Spain,Paris,Bermuda,the Bahamas,cancun and Puerto Rico,and sharing experiences with their “Couples United” friend group.
Entrepreneurship and Commitment to Children
margretta Cannon’s entrepreneurial ventures reflected her dedication to community welfare. She established “Gretta’s Homemade,” a gourmet cookie business, and “Agape Family care Home”, a daycare center. She later expanded her educational programs through collaborations with the Washington Adult School and Yolo High School in West Sacramento.
Her after-school program was designed to support both parents and children, offering parenting classes, GED readiness, and English as a Second Language resources. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, nearly 36 million children where enrolled in school in 2022, highlighting the notable impact programs like Cannon’s could have.
Founding Haven of Hope and Supporting the Homeless
Cannon co-founded “Haven of Hope, City Within a City” alongside Wonda Raymond, an organization dedicated to assisting individuals and families transitioning out of homelessness. The program offered vital support services, job training, and life skills advancement. Every year, Haven of Hope distributed coats to children in need, thanks to an ongoing donation from Burlington.
A Devout Faith and Active Church Involvement
Faith was a cornerstone of Cannon’s life.She actively ministered at Transformation Ministries and frequently shared her insights at churches throughout the country. Locally, she was a devoted member and leader at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Calvary Christian Center, Greater Faith Church, and Center of Praise Ministries for three decades. At Center of Praise, she led the Prayer Intercessor Team and co-facilitated the Small couples Omni Group.
Bishop Parnell Lovelace, founder and senior pastor of Center of Praise, described her as a “jewel” and a “true queen,” praising her unwavering commitment to service “Whatever she could find her hands to do, she jumped right in and served. And she served well.”
Family and Legacy
margretta Cannon is survived by her husband, Mardeio; children LaKeshia Chambers, Jocelyn Chambers Brown, Johnny Cannon, and Matthew Cannon; grandchildren Michaela White, Daizah Cannon, Julian Cannon, Devin Cannon, Jadyn Brown, and Jacen Cannon; great-granddaughter Naavah White; brothers Charles (Dutch) Deares and Michael Green; and a wide circle of extended family and friends.
| key Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | June 9, 1951 |
| Date of Passing | September 26, 2025 |
| Spouse | Mardeio Cannon (Married 1998) |
| Organizations Founded/Co-Founded | Agape Family Care Home, Haven of Hope |
Did you know? Margretta Cannon’s roots in the Gullah Geechee culture, known for its rich culinary traditions, were celebrated through her signature gumbo, a Christmas staple for her family.
Pro Tip: Supporting local charities and volunteering time are impactful ways to honor the legacy of individuals like Margretta Cannon who dedicated their lives to giving back.
What are some ways you have seen community members make a difference in your area? What inspired Margretta Cannon’s dedication to service?
The Enduring Importance of Community Involvement
Margretta Cannon’s story underscores the vital role individuals play in strengthening their communities. Volunteerism and charitable giving contribute significantly to social well-being, fostering a sense of connectedness and addressing critical needs. According to Independent Sector, the estimated value of volunteer time in 2023 was $2.6 trillion. This highlights the considerable economic and social impact of dedicated individuals like Cannon.
Frequently Asked Questions About Margretta Cannon
- Who was Margretta Cannon? Margretta Cannon was a Sacramento resident, entrepreneur, and dedicated community volunteer known for her philanthropic work and commitment to helping others.
- What was Haven of Hope’s mission? Haven of Hope, co-founded by Margretta Cannon, aimed to assist individuals and families transitioning from homelessness to economic stability.
- What were some of Margretta Cannon’s business ventures? She owned “Gretta’s Homemade” and “Agape Family Care Home,” and created programs to help parents obtain their GED and improve literacy skills.
- How did Margretta Cannon contribute to her local churches? She served in leadership roles at several Sacramento-area churches, including leading prayer teams and facilitating couples’ groups.
- What impact did Margretta Cannon have on the Sacramento community? Margretta Cannon’s lasting impact is evident in the lives she touched through her businesses,volunteer work,and unwavering commitment to service.
- What was Margretta Cannon’s faith like? Cannon was a devout Christian who actively ministered at Transformation Ministries and various churches, integrating her faith into all aspects of her life.
- What is the Gullah Geechee culture? The Gullah geechee culture is a unique African-American culture that originated from enslaved Africans brought to the coastal areas of the Southeastern United States, known for its distinct language, cuisine, and traditions.
Share your thoughts and memories of Margretta Cannon in the comments below. Let’s continue to celebrate her life and legacy of service!
What specific challenges faced by marginalized communities in Sacramento inspired Margretta Cannon’s lifelong passion for advocacy and equality?
Sacramento Honors Margretta Cannon: Celebrating teh Life of a “True Queen”
A Legacy of Community Leadership and Empowerment
Sacramento is currently immersed in a city-wide party honoring the remarkable life and enduring legacy of Margretta Cannon. Affectionately known as a “True Queen” by those who knew her, Cannon’s decades of dedicated service to the Sacramento community, notably within the African American community, are being recognized through a series of events throughout October 2025.This tribute isn’t just about acknowledging past achievements; it’s about inspiring future generations with a powerful example of civic engagement, resilience, and unwavering commitment to social justice. Sacramento community leaders, local organizations, and residents are all participating in remembering and celebrating Margretta Cannon’s impact.
Early Life and Rise to Prominence
Margretta Cannon’s story began with humble roots. Born and raised in Sacramento, she witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by marginalized communities. This early exposure fueled a lifelong passion for advocacy and equality.
* Early Activism: Cannon’s initial involvement in community work centered around youth programs, recognizing the critical need for positive outlets and mentorship for young people.
* Education & Empowerment: She strongly believed in the power of education and actively supported initiatives aimed at improving educational opportunities for all Sacramento residents.
* Political Engagement: Cannon’s influence extended into the political arena, where she became a respected voice advocating for policies that addressed systemic inequalities. She wasn’t afraid to challenge the status quo and consistently fought for the rights of underserved populations.
key Contributions to Sacramento
margretta Cannon’s impact on Sacramento is multifaceted and deeply ingrained in the city’s fabric. Her contributions span numerous areas,leaving a lasting positive effect.
Cannon was a tireless advocate for civil rights, working alongside prominent figures in the movement to dismantle discriminatory practices.
* Fair Housing Initiatives: She played a pivotal role in advocating for fair housing policies, challenging redlining and promoting integrated neighborhoods.
* Police Accountability: Cannon was a vocal proponent of police accountability and worked to build trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
* Voting Rights: Recognizing the importance of political participation, she actively engaged in voter registration drives and worked to ensure equal access to the ballot box.
supporting Black-Owned Businesses & Economic Empowerment
Understanding the importance of economic independence, Cannon dedicated significant effort to supporting Black-owned businesses in Sacramento.
* Business Development Programs: She spearheaded programs designed to provide resources, mentorship, and access to capital for aspiring entrepreneurs.
* Community Investment: Cannon actively encouraged investment in historically underserved neighborhoods,fostering economic growth and revitalization.
* Networking opportunities: She created platforms for Black business owners to connect, collaborate, and expand their networks.
Mentorship and Youth Development
Perhaps one of Cannon’s most enduring legacies is her commitment to mentoring young people. She understood that investing in the next generation was crucial for creating a more just and equitable future.
* Scholarship Funds: Cannon established scholarship funds to help students from disadvantaged backgrounds pursue higher education.
* Leadership Training: she developed leadership training programs to empower young people to become active and engaged citizens.
* role model & Inspiration: Cannon served as a powerful role model, demonstrating the importance of perseverance, integrity, and service to others.
the “True Queen” Title: A Reflection of Respect and Admiration
The moniker “true Queen” wasn’t bestowed upon Margretta Cannon lightly. It’s a testament to her regal presence, unwavering dignity, and the profound respect she commanded within the Sacramento community. The title reflects:
* Grace Under Pressure: Cannon navigated challenging situations with grace and composure, always maintaining her integrity.
* Unwavering Principles: She stood firm in her beliefs, even in the face of opposition, and never compromised her values.
* Selfless Service: Her dedication to serving others was unwavering, and she consistently put the needs of the community before her own.
* Empowerment of Others: She had a unique ability to inspire and empower those around her, helping them to reach their full potential.
Current Commemorative Events (October 2025)
Sacramento’s celebration of Margretta Cannon’s life includes a diverse range of events designed to honor her legacy and inspire continued community engagement.
- City Hall Proclamation: A formal proclamation recognizing Margretta Cannon Day was issued by the Sacramento city Council on October 15th, 2025.
- Community gala: A fundraising gala, held on October 22nd, 2025, benefits the Margretta Cannon Scholarship Fund.
- Ancient Exhibit: The Sacramento History Museum is hosting a special exhibit showcasing Cannon’s life and contributions, running throughout October.
- Neighborhood Cleanup & Beautification Project: Volunteers are participating in a city-wide cleanup and beautification project in honor of Cannon’s commitment to community betterment.
- Youth Leadership Forum: A youth leadership forum, featuring inspiring speakers and workshops, is being held on October 29th, 2025, to empower the next generation of leaders.
Continuing the Legacy: How to Get Involved
Margretta Cannon’s legacy extends beyond these commemorative events. Her spirit of service and commitment to