Joan MacCallum lived an illustrious life well beyond the knowledge of most of us. She worked hard to become as successful as she was. We know she was an accomplished daughter, wife, and mother, and she had quite a career beyond the home to benefit those who knew her. Joan served successfully in the CIA early in her career. Giving that up to become a citizen of Lynchburg helped her chosen community over time. She was very active in the League of Women Voters, not only to their benefit but also to her a better understanding of local government to the extent that she wanted to become more involved, and she did. City planning became her area of interest, and she pursued roles that interested her and the organizations. Serving actively on the City Planning Commission gave her the background to eventually run for elective office, that of a Lynchburg City Council member. Elected, she later chaired the City Council's Committee on Planning and Development, a position she held for many years. Joan's intellectual abilities excelled in these roles and were recognized by those involved. The various members of Lynchburg's City Council relied on Joan as a consultant on planning matters, knowing that her experience in the many planning roles was well beyond theirs, giving her insights they didn't have on such issues. It wasn't unusual to see Joan visiting the city's Planning Department staff to gain more information about a planning matter that was or was about to be in front of the city council on an upcoming agenda. The Virginia League of Municipalities, The Virginia City Management Association, other Virginia government groups, and national associations sought Joan's input at several state conferences. The more they asked of her, the more effort she made to be prepared beyond what was expected. Developers in Lynchburg would welcome her advice regarding plans before placing them on the agenda for the City Planning Commission/City Council,  
Dede & I shall remember her fondly.

Lynchburg and the world is better for Joan and Bob's lives. We'll look forward to celebrating with you.  T and Marjette

One in bright orange and one in bright pink, a dynamic duo for sure. Joan M was my shero and I will miss her wisdom and wit. Another history maker is gone but I, for one, feel  blessed to have known her.  LWVL is where I met Joan but our paths crossed many times and she became my friend and mentor.

I want to extend my condolences to Joan’s family. She was a great example and friend, had a confident sense of the community and willing shared it. I am grateful especially for guidance during trying situations. Thank you for sharing your mother with us!
Sincerely,
Arelia Langhorne

What a Great Lady she was! Someone to be admired and respected for her intellect, her integrity and her indomitable spirit. A force to be reckoned with a  tough but tender beating heart and wry sense of humor. 

Her family lived next door and my earliest memories are crossing the yard to play with Jennifer and Andy.  The years passed but the connection remained. 

Unknowingly she was a role model to me  (and many others I’m certain) . Her straightforward approach and no nonsense ways always resonated with me.   She was a trailblazer and a steadfast presence during changing times.  

She made a real difference with her time on earth.  Her actions and dedication helped shape Lynchburg and will be missed and remembered. ❤️

Joan was a good friend. She and I served on the Lynchburg City Council together. Joan was the first woman to ever serve and I was the second. Joan was a leader and a visionary. Downtown Lynchburg is what it is today because of Joan's early efforts. Joan suffered no fools.  She was a liberal Democrat and never wavered in her beliefs. I will miss her.

I worked closely with Joan during her years serving on the Lynchburg City. council. She was intimately involved in 
the revitalization of downtown Lynchburg and made several trips with me to Washington DC seeking federal funds for what would become the Radisson Hotel. I will always remember her kindness and dedication to the citizens of Lynchburg. A truly wonderful person.

OBITUARY

Joan Weaver MacCallum

May 8, 1934 – October 11, 2023

Whitten Timberlake Chapel

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