Levi Vincent Canady, Jr. was born February 18, 1935, the fifth child of the late Mary Eliza and Levi V. Canady, Sr. On Thursday, June 13, 2024, he passed away at the age of 89.

Levi accepted Christ at an early age and was a longtime member of Mt. Calvary Missionary Baptist Church. He truly lived the scripture, "Matthew 25: 35-40," by showing his compassionate heart to all those he came in contact with. He always tried to be there for anyone, regardless of the reason or situation. Levi loved God and valued nothing above his faith and his family. Affectionately known as "Poppy," his sisters taught him how to cook, and he absolutely loved sharing his kitchen skills for the congregation and being the one to take leadership of church meals. No one could touch his turkey salad, sweet potatoes, potato salad or especially the BBQ ribs he made with his own special sauce. Adults and children alike enjoyed the outstanding meals that Levi prepared with love.

Levi graduated from the original Dunbar High School. After over 20 years of dedicated service, he retired from the University of Kentucky as the supervisor of housekeeping. He was truly a compassionate man that loved life and had a eagerness to help others in any way he could. Whether it was encouraging someone to apply for a job, taking a chance on hiring them, instilling in them the motivation to be as successful as possible or just providing a hot meal or a special treat, Levi always did what he could for the disadvantaged.

Levi also enjoyed traveling and socializing; he was no stranger to a cocktail or a dance floor! He had impeccable style and every immaculate suit he wore was paired with a smooth-brimmed hat and fashionable sunglasses. His upscale outfits could only be overshadowed by his bright, infectious smile.

In addition to his parents, Levi was preceded in death by his first wife, Roberta West Canady; his dear companion, Betty Jean Gentry; a daughter, Bettie Jo Gentry; three sisters, Betty Sanderlyn, Beatrice Canady and Lula Morgan; a brother, James Canady; mother-In-Law, Gaynell Turner; and son-in-law, Craig Walter.

Levi is survived by his current wife, Linda Canady; his eight surviving children, Carol Ann West, Bryan (Maxine) West, Josalyn West, Robin Walter, Edward (Jamie) Gentry, Rochelle (Tim) Williams, William Jones and Carolyn (Brian) Starke; 14 grandchildren, Louis, Sharonica, Timothy, Devonia, LaDonna, JaRae, BriAnna, Rya, Ryan, LaTesha, Cherrelle, Shelton, Kayne and Christian; 31 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; a sister-in-law, Dorothy Canady; nephews, Glayton, Lee M., Anthony and Eric (Delisha); his niece, Tammy (William); and a host of friends and his church family.