A memorial service will be held 3:00 P.M. on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at John H. Shaw's Son Funeral Home.

Mr. George “Aaron” Canty peacefully departed this life on June 2, 2026. Born on March 13, 1946, he was the beloved son of the late Myers “Aaron” Canty and Lucinda Canty. George was the youngest of nine children and the last surviving sibling. As the patriarch of the Canty family, he was a source of strength, wisdom, guidance, and unwavering love. His presence provided comfort and stability to generations of family members who looked to him for advice and encouragement. George attended Saint Paul Elementary School in Summerton, South Carolina, which was two small white buildings put together. He attended Saint Phillip AME Church in Rimini, South Carolina and was also a construction worker. Known to some as George and to many others as “Uncle Aaron” he was a man of few words whose actions spoke volumes. He treasured family connections and maintained special bonds with many of his nieces and nephews. He especially enjoyed long phone conversations with his niece, Dorothy of Maryland, and his nephew, Byron of New York. Though they often tested the limits of a telephone call, he accepted every minute as an expression of love. He also shared a special relationship with his niece, Mary Alice and nephews, Jerome, Willie, and James all of Wilmington, North Carolina. Beyond his devotion to family, George had a passion for classic automobiles, especially his prized 1966 Chevrolet Bel Air. He found great joy in working on his beloved car and taking spontaneous drives to South Carolina to visit family. Those trips often included a stop at his favorite barbecue spot, where he would bring back meals to share with friends. Uncle Aaron also had a love for hats. George leaves to cherish his memory: his special companion, Eleanor Ballard of Navassa, North Carolina; a stepdaughter, Diana of Jacksonville, North Carolina; a stepbrother, Hazel Junious of Summerton, South Carolina; more than 30 beloved nieces and nephews; a host of great-nieces and great-nephews; many cherished friends, including, Doug and Blue; a very special friend, Charles Springer and his wife; and his devoted caregiver, Dotti Drayford of North Carolina. Although his presence will be deeply missed, the love, wisdom, and memories he shared will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. “To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.” 2 Corinthians 5:8