On Sunday, November 5, 2023, the Nurses Honor Guard of East Central Alabama had the privilege of honoring a remarkable soul who touched the lives of many with her boundless compassion and selfless spirit, Betty R. (Roughton) Cannon LPN.
“Miss Betty” (as she was more affectionately called) graduated from Valley High School in 1953 and was dual enrolled in the vocational nursing program where she received her LPN degree. She began serving at George H. Lanier Memorial Hospital in 1956 and retired in 2013 at the age of 77. She was well-known throughout the hospital, as she served on every unit — Medical/Surgical, ICU, Obstetrics, and the Emergency Department. She also served for a time at the office of Dr. Simmons (Valley Medical Group) from 1968 until approximately 1980.
Betty Cannon was devoted to her profession and selflessly served as a nurse for 57 years. She was well-respected by her peers and loved by all who were fortunate to know her. Her dedication was not measured in years, but by the countless lives she touched and the indelible marks she left on the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to be under her care. Her wisdom, gained through decades of service, was a wellspring of knowledge that nurtured those around her.
In 2010, she was rightfully bestowed with the title of Nurse of the Year at George H. Lanier Hospital, a recognition that reflected not only her exceptional skills but also the essence of her character. It was a moment of acknowledgment for a lifetime spent in the service of others and the impact she had on those countless lives.
May we not mourn but celebrate the life and legacy of Betty Cannon. Though she may be absent in body, her influence endures — an everlasting tribute to a life that was a testament to the power of a nurse’s compassion and ability to heal.
Betty Cannon, we officially release you of your nursing duties, and we will proudly continue to carry the torch.
Nightingale Tribute Leader: Lori Butler
Participants: Pamela Knudson, Shari Busby, Amanda Simmons