Obituary

Ronald (Ron, Ronnie) Canada, age 71, of Charleston, WV, passed away Tuesday, May 20, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. Surrounded by family, Ron faced his illness with remarkable strength, grace, and unwavering hope, a true testament to resilience that defined his life.

Born on November 20, 1953, in Oak Hill, WV, he was the son of Thomas and Mabel Canada. After graduating from Collins High School in Oak Hill, WV, he worked for Elkem Metals, Union Carbide, in Alloy, WV, for several years. After a short stay in Racine, WI, Ron returned to Oak Hill and was employed with Wesley Youth Center, before working for Canterbury Construction.

Ron was preceded in death by his mother, Mabel, and father, Thomas Canada; sisters, Betty, Mary Frances, and Jeanna, and brothers, Charles, Walter, and Billy.

Ron leaves behind sons, Carlos Cosby of Whipple, WV, and Ta’hari Canada of Charleston, WV; daughters, Mya (Little) Thomas of Charleston, WV, and Zo’livia Canada of Charleston, WV; 15 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren; his special life partner and friend, Karen Sizemore; brothers and spouses, Thomas (Margaret) Canada of Cleveland, OH, Anthony (Colleen) Canada of Harlem Heights, WV, and Michael (Rosetta) Canada of Whipple, WV; sisters and spouses, Gwendolyn (Michael) Adams of Cleveland, OH, and Adelia (Randy) Heflin of Phoenix, AZ, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends, who will miss his loving and kind-hearted spirit.

A philosopher and professor at heart, Ron was a jack of all trades and a master of none. He could build you a house, fix your hair, fix your car, and make cinnamon rolls from scratch, all in the same day. He was definitely one of the best pancake and waffle originators on the planet. He loved the Lord. He enjoyed gospel and African music, nature, and nature walks, but most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his loved ones. He was skilled in many different areas and could do a variety of tasks well.

He was an amazing “Dad” and “Pawpaw.” His legacy will live on through the lives he touched and the memories he leaves behind.

A Celebration of Life service will be held from 2:00 to 8:00 p.m. on July 3, 2025, at the New River Convention Center, 497 Mall Road, Oak Hill, WV. Fantastic food and beverages will be served. Please wear casual and comfortable clothing that prioritizes ease and a laid-back feel. Dad’s favorite team was the Green Bay Packers. Family is requesting that you wear green, white and gold to represent him and the team he loved.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation toward his “Celebration of Life” service. Cash App: $ZiggyZoZoAna; Venmo: Mya-Thomas-32; or Mya Thomas, 433 Allen Drive, Charleston, WV 25302.

Condolences may be sent to his family at www.barlowbonsall.com.

Barlow Bonsall Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.