James "Jimmy" Henry Callahan

James Henry Callahan, of Raleigh, passed away on May 24th at Magnolia Glen Senior Living facility. Jim was born on June 29, 1928 in Glen Cove (Long Island), NY to John and Mary Callahan. He grew up in a large, active family with six siblings.

Following high school graduation, Jim proudly served his country in the US Navy. On August 28,1954, he married the love of his life, Judy Apple. Over the next five years they welcomed three children to their family and relocated to North Carolina. Having lived in Raleigh for over 60 years, Judy and Jim were members of Christ Episcopal Church.

Jim had a successful career at Homasote Company where he was the consummate sales professional. Anyone who met Jim felt as if they had been his lifelong friend, even after a brief discussion. His infectious laugh and gentle smile were always welcomed by those whom he met.

Jim’s great passion was golf and he thoroughly loved every minute that he was out in the sunshine, on a golf course with his friends and wife. Together they played thousands of rounds of golf for more than 60 years and formed many lasting relationships and great memories. Jim was extremely proud of the five holes-in-one he achieved over his golfing career.

Preceding Jim in death were his parents and five of his siblings.

He is survived by, son Richard Callahan and his wife, Cindy of Raleigh, daughter Jill Rekuc and her husband Tom Holder, Jr. of Raleigh and daughter Diane Barlow and her husband Alan of Concord, NH. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Ashley Kraemer (Jonathan), Whitney Matthies (Chris), Ryan, Blair and Grace Callahan, Dr. Caroline Reynolds (Zane), Brian Rekuc, Ashley and Carl Holder, Stephanie and Courtney Barlow; and four great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at Christ Episcopal Church, in Raleigh on Friday, May 28th at 11am, with a private burial service for the family at Oakwood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent in Jim’s memory to Transitions LifeCare, 250 Hospice Cir. Raleigh, NC 27607.

Arrangements by Brown-Wynne, 300 Saint Mary's St. Raleigh, NC.