John Jay Canham, Jr

John “Jay” Canham, Jr., 68, Colonel USMC (Ret.), passed away on Wednesday, May 13, 2026. He was the beloved husband of the late Celeste M Canham. Jay was born in born in Pensacola, Fl. On November 8, 1957, he was the son of the late John J. Canham, Sr. and Jean (Marso) Canham.

He graduated from Providence college in 1979 were upon he was commissioned an Officer in the United States Marine Corps Following which he attended Law School at Suffolk University in Boston, Massachusetts getting his law degree in 1982. In 1983, he started a 23-year active-duty career as a Marine Judge Advocate, serving as a prosecutor defense counsel, Staff Judge Advocate and instructor for a variety of units including the 1st Marine Division. His service included a combat tour in Iraq during 2004 which resulted in his being awarded the Bronze Star. His career was distinguished by being awarded, in addition to the Bronze Star, the Legion of Merit (2x), Meritorious Service Medal and Navy Commendation Award (2x). During his active-duty tour, he also attended the Judge Advocate General School of the Army receiving a Master of Law Degree in 1993. Following his retirement from active duty in 2005, he continued practicing law in RI specializing in Criminal Litigation and Probate law. Jay embodied incredible curiosity, love of family, strength, integrity, honor and dignity which were the hallmark of all aspects of his remarkable life. Jay enjoyed reading, traveling and following his beloved Providence College Friars, Boston Red Sox and the New England Patriots. His greatest passion was enjoying time with his family and friends.

Colonel Canham was predeceased by his beautiful wife of 37 years and companion of 45 years Celeste. He is survived by his son John III (Lisa), his daughter Katherine (Jebb Reid), and his twin sons Patrick and Ryan (Kristy). His true joy was being involved with the growth and development of his grandchildren Quince, Clover, Mara and John IV. He is also survived by his brother; Geoffrey Canham, and two sisters; Quinta Furtado (Jim), and Hiedi Gumache (David).

Jay was predeceased by his sister Kristin Conville.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at 11:30AM at St. Kevin Church, 333 Sandy Lane, Warwick, RI. Visitation will be held prior from 8:30AM-10:30AM at THE URQUHART-MURPHY FUNERAL HOME, 800 Greenwich Avenue, Warwick, RI.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, 690 Peary Street, Newport, RI 02841

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