Dr. William Jerome "Jerry" Callan

Dr. Callan, a cherished individual known for his quiet, selfless, astute and very witty personality passed away on January 17, 2025. He was 81 years young and passed at his home in Millbrook, Alabama from natural causes. He was born in Des Moines, Iowa at 132d Wing Air Force Base on May 31,1943. Throughout his childhood he attended various military schools all over the world. He graduated from high school in Hawaii and began his college career at the University of Hawaii. He later transferred to the University of Arkansas where he received his Bachelor of Science degree, and from there went to the University of Georgia receiving his Doctor of Microbiology. During his college career and for some years to follow, a total of 25 years, he was an active member of the Alabama National Guard. In 1967, he began his career with the Alabama Department of Health, Bureau of Clinical Laboratories as a microbiologist. He left in1971 and went to the University of Georgia to get his Ph.D. In 1974 he returned to the lab and was promoted to the Assistant Laboratory Director. During this time, he was also a Professor of Science for Auburn University at Montgomery. In 1987 he became the State Health Director for Alabama. He remained in this position until his retirement in 2008. He was a Godly man who always had a passion for science, all things space related, painting, computers, music, animals and family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Victor Vernon Callan and Anne Marie Callan. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Sharon Gilliam Callan; his children, Aimee Callan Pugh (Craig) and Micah W.B. Callan; his grandchildren, Craig Chandler Pugh (Kylie), Callan Cade Pugh (Autumn), and Annabelle Houston Pugh. Along with his great grandchildren Eleanor Catherine Pugh and Mary Callan Pugh. A celebration of life will be held at Frazer Church where he was a longtime member, teacher and volunteer, on Thursday, January 23rd at 2pm. Visitation will be held from 1-2pm in the East Sanctuary. In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to Auburn University at Montgomery https://www.aum.edu/advancement/ways-to-give/. Please donate to the AUM College of Sciences in memory of Dr. Callan. Brookside Funeral Home, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens of Millbrook, AL directing.

Dr. William Jerome "Jerry" Callan

May 31, 1943 - January 17, 2025