I called and cancelled Tuesday. Got the email Wednesday morning that I had been disconnected. Called the 866 number and they told me that there was nothing available. She said she saw in the notes that I had talked to several people over the last few days (one of which who told me to go ahead and disconnect to be able to be eligible for offers) and that I should try waiting several days before calling back, to make sure that no one was accessing my info (and therefore somehow keeping it active).
I have done the song and dance successfully for probably longer than almost anyone in this thread. Last year was a bigger headache than ever (issues with the GC) and this year hasn't started so well. I was upset when AT&T bought DirecTV because I figured the good times were over. So I agree with those who point to that as the root cause.