Kenneth Ray Callahan

Coach Kenneth "Ray" Callahan died peacefully in Virginia on September 2, at the age of 84. Ray is survived by his wife of 63 years, Essie “Lee” Dorsey-Callahan; children, Kenneth Ray Callahan Jr. of Zanesville, OH, Karen Callahan of Manassas, VA, Terri Caravousanos of Islip, NY, Toni Callahan of Manassas, VA; 14 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren.He is preceded in death by his parents James Earl Callahan of Lebanon, KY, Effie Rhea Vessels-Callahan of Lebanon, KY; siblings Louise Masterson of Louisville, KY, James Arville Callahan of Louisville, KY, Anna Mae McCarty of Gravel Switch, KY, Robert Earl Callahan of Ft Wayne, IN, Elizabeth Callahan and Edward Callahan of Loretta, KY. Ray was born on April 28th, 1933 in Loretta, KY to James Earl and Effie Rhea Callahan. He played football at Lebanon High School and was known as “Mr. Touchdown”. He graduated in 1952 and was recruited by the great Paul Bear Bryant to play football with a full scholarship at the University of KY.He graduated in 1956 with a degree in Biology and Education. He married Essie Lee Dorsey, his high school sweetheart in 1953. He taught H.S. and coached sports at Versailles KY, football at Manual in Louisville KY, and then with the Danville Admirals in KY winning the state championship and coach of the year in 1962/63. That led him to coach at his alma mater at UK under Charlie Bradshaw.He then moved on to University of Cincinnati as assistant for 2 years under Homer Rice and then head coach for 4 years. He went on to coach in the NFL with the Baltimore Colts with Howard Schnellenberger, and then with Jack Pardee with the WFL Florida Blazers, the Chicago Bears (line coach in front of Walter Peyton his first 3 years in the NFL), and the Washington Redskins. He was with the Houston Oilers with Eddie Biles and with Joe Walton and the N.Y. Jets where he was the defensive line coach of the “sack exchange”. They retired to Lake Gaston VA where he enjoyed fishing and boating with his children and grandchildren. He is remembered as a humble, honorable man who was dedicated to his wife and family. He could play a mean harmonica and hand carved a dancing doll that entertained man. He touched many lives during his time on this earth and will be remembered fondly. A celebration of life is scheduled for September 9th, 2017 at 1:00 pm at Sandy Brooke Farm, 4583 Highway Nine O Three, Bracey, VA. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Coach Ray’s life. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Southside Animal Volunteers at 5405 Poor House Rd, Dolphin, VA 23843. Condolences can be sent to Lee Callahan at 734 Poplar Creek Rd, Bracey, VA 23919.A celebration of life will be held in KY at a later date to be announced. The family would like to thank CMH and Meadowview Terrace caregivers and hospital staff for their care and dedication in caring for Ray during his stays in the last two months.