Janath Russell Cannon, former first counselor in the general presidency of the Relief Society of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and last surviving member of the original group of church representatives sent to Nigeria and Ghana in 1978, died Thursday, July 5, 2007.

A graduate of Wellesley College with a passion for language and literature, Mrs. Cannon edited, authored and co-authored numerous books, including: "Edward Hunter, Faithful Steward," "The Cannon Family Treasury," "Nauvoo Panorama," "Women of the Covenant: The Story of Relief Society" and "Together: A love story." She also edited the Tabernacle Choir's newspaper, Keeping Tab, during her 18 years singing with them.

Wife of Edwin Q. "Ted" Cannon Jr., Mrs. Cannon spent extensive years serving the LDS Church in various capacities. The pair served multiple missions together across the globe in addition to their service in West Africa.

Funeral services will be held Monday, July 16, at noon at the Ensign Stake Center, 135 A St. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the LDS Perpetual Education Fund.