What happened to David Ace Cannon’s daughter Payton? Late Charlotte radio host suffered heartbreaking tragedy in 2020

David Ace Cannon, former co-host of The Ace & TJ Show, has passed away at the age of 56. News of his death was shared by radio outlets on social media, confirming that he died on Tuesday night, February 4, 2024.

Cannon was a longtime staple of Charlotte radio, co-hosting the popular syndicated morning show The Ace & TJ Show since 1998. However, he abruptly left the program in September 2023, after which it was rebranded as The TJ and Riggins Show.

Beyond his career in radio, David Ace Cannon faced profound personal tragedy in 2020 when his 21-year-old daughter, Payton Cannon, died in a car accident. On July 29, Payton was driving north on Brawley School Road near Lightship Drive around 12:15 am when her car veered off the road and crashed into a tree at high speed.

Cannon was devastated by the loss of his daughter and later gave a heartbreaking eulogy at her funeral, sharing his grief and love for her. Holding back tears, he said:

“If I gave you one second and said…come up with an image of Payton in your mind right now I can guarantee you I would see smiles all over this room... So come up with an image of Payton in your mind right now. Because that’s what she would have loved.”

(Video via YouTube/The TJ & Riggins Show)

In the eulogy, David Ace Cannon continued paying homage to Payton and remarked:

“I said the other day I did not know that a heart could break this much. But you have been here, all of you in some way, and you have been God’s blessing for us, and we are so very thankful,” Ace said. “These are always one of those moments people talk about, what we would do for someone, what they would want us to do…well…Payton would want you to tell a funny story, remember the good times, help a friend, and smile. Because that’s what she did.”

David Ace Cannon leaves behind two ex-wives and two sons.

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Tributes pour in for David Ace Cannon

Tributes are continuing to pour in for radio giant David Ace Cannon. Radio station HITS 96.1 posted on their Facebook account:

"The iHeartMedia Charlotte family is devastated to learn of the passing of David "Ace” Cannon. For years, he was an important part of so many people's lives, providing companionship and laughter to his many listeners and colleagues. Our thoughts are with Ace's loved ones during this incredibly difficult time."

The TJ & Riggins Show also posted a tribute on their Facebook page:

"Our prayers are with our brother. We are devastated by the news. Please keep Cade, Shonnette, Dax, Amanda and Piper in your prayers. We love you Ace."

Ryan Hoppe, a fellow radio personality, wrote:

"I am crying as I type this because I can’t believe that my friend and mentor @aceatlarge is no longer with us. I first met him as an eager radio guy at the Morning Show Boot Camp in 2013 and he took me under his wing through the ups and downs."

Michael Breezekat Rackoff, Former Executive producer at The TJ & Riggins Show, wrote:

"Ace David Ace Cannon will always be one of the most important people that’s even been in my life. Everything I have today in one way or another would not be if not for him becoming part of my life. I’m a much better man because of him, TJ, Pete, and Ryan."

His passing has left the Charlotte radio community mourning the loss of a beloved broadcaster who entertained and connected with audiences for decades.