William Callahan, Jr

On May 24 2016 in Auburn Alabama, William L. "Bill" Callahan passed away at the age of 93. Born in Birmingham, AL, he graduated from Woodlawn High School where he excelled in football, and was known as "Killer Callahan". Although recruited by a young assistant coach, Bear Bryant, at Vanderbilt University, he ultimately remained loyal to his home state, and chose to play football for The University of Alabama, where he remained a lifetime loyal fan.

On November 30, 1941 he married Doris Brown, the love of his life. They were married for 56 years until her death in 1997. A year following the birth of his first daughter, Bill joined World War II in 1943. He received commendation for serving in both fronts. Returning in 1946, he started a career in the electrical construction business in Birmingham, AL, which spanned several decades culminating as President of Dyer Electric Company. He is remembered by work colleagues for his intelligence, strong work ethic, and sense of fun. He served as president of the Alabama chapter of his professional organization, the National Electrical Contractors Association. Retiring in 1980 at the age of 58, he enjoyed traveling, entertaining his friends, and charming his grandchildren by teaching them to play cards, drive his golf cart and hunt snipes at Lake Martin. He continued his support of the U.S. Military as a long time member of the America Legion having served as Commander of the Dadeville Post. He was an active member of the United Methodist Church in Birmingham for many years holding offices and singing in the choir. He was last a member of First Presbyterian Church of Alexander City, AL.

Bill was a beloved father, grandfather and great grandfather. He is remembered for his kindness, generosity, skill on the dance floor, delightful sense of humor, ability as a singer and cartoonist, and his reliability in a crisis. He is survived by his daughters, Dale Quiggle (George) of Opelika, AL and Leigh Murray (Rusty) of Centennial, CO.,his grandchildren, Wes Quiggle (Karmine), Marc Quiggle (Leslee), Leigh Ellen Murray Curl (Jed) and Beth Murray (Calvin Beasley) and his great grandchildren Bailey Quiggle, Conner Quiggle, Massey Quiggle, Isabelle Quiggle, Munro Murray-Curl and Embeth Murray-Curl. He was preceded in death by his brother James Callahan, parents Ina Propst Callahan and William L. Callahan Sr, wife, Doris "Dee" Callahan, and son William M. "Mike" Callahan. A Visitation will be held on Friday, May 27th at Jefferson Memorial Gardens in Trussville, AL from 5-7p.m. A Graveside Service with Military Honors will be Saturday, May 28th at 2:00 p.m. at Jefferson Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the American Lung Association. Jefferson Memorial Trussville directing.