Jay Ralph McCallum

Abingdon, VA Mr. Jay Ralph McCallum, age 76, passed on Saturday, March 21, 2015 surrounded by his loving family. Jay and his family moved to Abingdon 17 years ago; coming from Grundy, VA. He was born in Mesquite, TX; however, he lived and was schooled in Montana. He received his undergraduate and graduate degrees from Montana State University in Billings. He retired from the Montana State Department of Education, and also retired from the Southwest Virginia Community College. Jay was a loyal member of the Sinking Spring Presbyterian Church where he served on the Session and numerous committees. He had a community minded spirit and served as a volunteer with Faith In Action and Habitat For Humanity. Jay had a deep care and love for his family, especially for his grandchildren. He wanted to be remembered as the “Best Grandad Ever.” He also loved Hokie Football and playing golf. Jay Ralph McCallum was predeceased by his parents Ralph and Dorothy Sellers McCallum. He is survived by his wife Penny McCallum; son Shawn and wife Tiffany of Mebane, NC; daughters Debbie Minton and husband Pete of Christiansburg, VA, Melissa McCormick and husband Philip of High Point, NC, Kara McCallum and husband Scott Dodson of Richmond, VA and Cortney McCallum of Johnson City, TN; brother John McCallum of Stuart, FL; 13 grandchildren Jantzen Minton, Kortlyn Minton, Jaimee Johnson, Riley McCormick, Madison McCormick, Brooke Adkins, Brice Adkins, Kira McCallum, Breighlyn Crockett, Jaythan Crockett, Josephine Dodson, Keeley Wilson and Denver Wilson; brothers-in-law Archie McCoy and wife Emma and Scotty McCoy; Sisters-In-Law Jeanne Cooper, Beverly Looney, Judy Little and husband Don, Sharon Collins and Robin McCoy. Several nephews, nieces and friends also survive. A memorial service will be held for Jay Ralph McCallum on Monday March 23, 2015 at 2:00 pm in the Sinking Spring Presbyterian Church officiated by Rev. Tim Reynolds. The family will greet friends after the service. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made to the Sinking Spring Presbyterian Church; 136 East Main Street; Abingdon, VA 24210 for their work with Faith In Action. Those wishing to share memories and express sympathy online may do so by visiting www.farrisfuneralservice.com. Jay Ralph McCallum and his family are in the care of Farris Cremation and Funeral Center, 19415 Lee Highway, Abingdon, VA 24210 (276-623-2700).