James Callahan
Obituary
In Memory of

James Darrell Callahan

1948 - 2022

Print

Obituary of James Darrell Callahan

Please share a memory of James to include in a keepsake book for family and friends.
View Tribute Book

James Darrell Callahan was born in Leslie County, Kentucky on June 17, 1948.   He was the son of Thelma Rose (Turner) Callahan.  

J.D. graduated with the Class of 1968 from Red Bird High School in Kentucky.   He then proudly and honorably served his country in 1969 and 1970 during the Vietnam War as a member of the United States Army.   J.D. married the former Julia Jane Lunsford and the couple were blessed with a son.   For more than twenty years, J.D. provided for his family, employed as a laborer for the Grand Trunk Railroad.   He retired in 2000.

J.D. often tried his luck on the Daily 3 and Daily 4 lottery. An avid sports fan, he enjoyed watching professional football and baseball. J.D. cheered especially loud for his favorite team, the Detroit Tigers. He also enjoyed watching NASCAR and car repair shows on television. He frequently tuned into the programs “Gold Rush”, NCIS, and action movies over the years. A self-proclaimed news junkie, J.D. kept up on current events to support his strong opinions.

J.D. was proud of his garden and despite having a small area to work with, cultivated fresh vegetables. He also planted beautiful flowers which he lovingly cared for in his yard. Handy around the house, he could fix just about anything and enjoyed working on projects alongside his son. Although he preferred to stay close to home, J.D. never met a stranger and would strike up a conversation with anyone.

James Darrell Callahan, age 74, of Newport, Michigan, passed away unexpectedly at ProMedica Monroe Regional Hospital on Friday; July 29, 2022.   His passing was preceded by his mother and his wife: Julia Callahan in 2014.

To cherish his memory, James leaves his son: Joshua Ryan Callahan and his loving companion: Sandy Lawson, both of Newport, Michigan.

James’s care has been entrusted to Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe; 2442 North Monroe Street, Monroe, Michigan 48162 (734) 384-5185. Cremation has taken place through Covenant Cremation of Erie, Michigan.

In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to the Callahan Family to assist with funeral arrangements.   Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.