John Quincy Callahan, Jr., 74
September 4, 1951 – April 18, 2026
John Quincy Callahan Jr., age 74, passed away peacefully on April 18, 2026. He was born on September 4, 1951, to the late John Quincy Callahan, Sr. and Dorothy Jean Callahan. A native of Chickasaw County in Okolona, John spent the last 30 years of his life in Pontotoc, where he built a life rooted in hard work, faith, and family. He graduated from Okolona High School in 1971 and went on to dedicate many years of service to his work, first at Action Industries and later spending the last two decades of his career at Cooper Tire. John was a faithful member of West Heights Baptist Church in Pontotoc. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life and had a deep love for the outdoors and all things Mississippi State. Whether hunting, fishing, or traveling from time to time, he cherished every moment spent in nature. He also had a special place in his heart for his beloved dogs, Lucy and Dakota.
Above all, John treasured his role as a grandfather. Being a “Grandad” and a “Da” brought him immense pride and happiness, and he loved spending time with his family. John will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his love of the outdoors, and his devotion to those he loved. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
A service celebrating his life will be held at 1 PM Monday, April 20, 2026, at Graveside in Lee Memorial Park in Verona. Visitation will be from 3 PM-6 PM Sunday, April 19, 2026, at Holland Funeral Directors-Tupelo Chapel.
John is survived by his loving wife, Margaret Elkin Wood Callahan; daughters, Rachel Callahan Pickett, Mary-Margaret Callahan and April (DD) Callahan; sister, Patsy Callahan Jones (Butch); grandchildren, Grayson Pickett Sheley (David), John Cade Pickett, Mckenzie, Kaiden and John Thomas; great grandchildren, GG, Thomas Allen Sheley and Ellis Gray Sheley. He is preceded in death by his father, John Quincy Callahan, Sr., mother, Dorothy Jean Callahan and Son-in-law, John Mark Pickett
Memorials may be made to WAGS Animal Rescue, P. O. Box 105, Okolona, MS. 38860 or Mississippi Lung Association, 353 Northmart Plaza, Jackson, MS. 39206.
Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.
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