Marie Virginia Stein Cannon

CASA GRANDE - Marie Virginia Stein Cannon, 92, of Casa Grande died on July 16, 2016, after a long battle with dementia.

Ms. Cannon was born on Feb. 1, 1924, in El Paso, Texas, to Paul and Ida Stein. She was a brave and courageous woman throughout her life. She worked at American Fence Company until retiring at age 73. She then lived in Arizona City, close to her Casa Grande roots. She was enthusiastic about gardening, shared her loved of piano by teaching local students and loved caring for the many cats she rescued.

She doted on and was a fierce protector of her three children and shared her passion for music with her grandchildren, teaching love and compassion to them through caring for many feline friends. Throughout her dementia, she never lost her ability to play the piano.

Known as "Nana" by her grandchildren, she is survived by two daughters and a son, Diana Arnold of Chandler, Michael Cannon of Peoria and Charlotte "Charlie" Cannon of Wickenburg; five grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a brother, Paul E. Stein Jr.

No memorial service is planned. Her ashes, according to her wishes, will be spread over her favorite place, Picacho Peak.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hermitage Cat Shelter in Tucson.

J. Warren Funeral Services, Cole & Maud The Gardens Chapel was in charge of arrangements.