Wanda "Lee" Cannon

Wanda Lee (Draper) Cannon was born March 3, 1935, to Irvin W. and Ethel I. (Baker) Draper in El Dorado, Kansas. She was called to her heavenly home on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at the age of 91.

Lee graduated from Newton High School in 1953 and attended Emporia State University. She returned to Newton in 1970 and became co-owner of Draper-Cannon Funeral Home, serving in that role until 1988. Even after the funeral home was sold, Lee continued serving families as a funeral director until her retirement in 2004. Throughout her career, she was known for caring for families with compassion, dignity, and a genuine desire to help others during difficult times.

Lee was a longtime member of Trinity Heights United Methodist Church and was devoted to many clubs and community organizations throughout her life. She was a member of the Treble Clef Choir, was the co-host of an annual community Pig Roast, was a former member of Chapter AG of the P.E.O. Sisterhood, and volunteered at Newton Medical Center. Whatever she was involved in, Lee gave it her full heart and energy.

Lee was preceded in death by her parents, her son, Rick Cannon, and her sister, Phyllis Zellers.

Lee is survived by her brother, David (Jim) Draper; her daughter, Kathy (Jon) Ross; her grandchildren, Christopher (Samantha) Ross, Jared (Kale) Cannon, Brianna Ross, and Nicholas Cannon; and her great-granddaughter, Mackenzie Ross. She is also survived by many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Lee was an avid fan of KU sports and the Green Bay Packers. She enjoyed knitting afghans and scarves for family and friends and rarely missed an opportunity to help someone in need. Her kindness, generosity, and selfless spirit will be remembered by all who knew and loved her.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 25, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Broadway Colonial Funeral Home, with the family greeting visitors during that time.

Funeral services will be held Friday, June 26, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Trinity Heights United Methodist Church. Interment will follow at Greenwood Cemetery in Newton.

Memorial contributions may be made in Lee's memory to Caring Hands Humane Society, 1400 SE 3rd St, Newton, KS 67114, or Trinity Heights United Methodist Church, 1200 N Boyd Ave, Newton, KS 67114.