Gerald “Jerry” Callihan, 70, of Benton, Kentucky, passed away at home on Tuesday, May 12, 2026.
Jerry was born on October 17, 1955, in Detroit, Michigan, to the late Denver Callihan and Margie Lucille Hall Callihan. Shortly after his birth, Jerry and his family relocated to California, where he was raised and spent most of his childhood. At around 14 years old, his family moved to western Kentucky, where he attended South Marshall High School and graduated in 1973. A diligent worker from a young age, Jerry spent several years with the Illinois Central Railroad before pursuing his own business, founding Callihan Motor Sales. He dedicated over forty years to the automotive industry before deciding to retire from car sales in 2025. Most recently, he worked as a warehouse manager for Major League Fishing in Benton.
Jerry was an avid outdoorsman with a multitude of hobbies and an appreciation for the simpler things in life. He loved spending time on the lake, going camping, riding motorcycles, and going to the casino from time to time. Unknown to most people, Jerry was also a very talented accordion player who had won several awards in the past. Jerry was truly one of a kind. As an animal lover, he always made sure to have plenty of pet cats and dogs around the house. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, and will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him.
He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Elizabeth “Carol” Mitchell Callihan; his daughter, Robyn Callihan (Kevin Bowerman) of Benton, Kentucky; his son, Bradley Callihan of Benton, Kentucky; his brother, Larry Callihan (Lori) of Lynn Grove, Kentucky; three grandchildren, Alexis Moryl, Leason Callihan, and Lendon Callihan; his sister-in-law, Rene Callihan; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Dennis Callihan; and his parents, Denver Callihan and Margie Lucille Hall Callihan.
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donations to Marshall County Humane Society, 6301 US HWY 68 E, Benton, KY 42025.
Visitation will be held from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at the Life Celebration Center of Filbeck-Cann, 1003 Poplar Street, Benton, Kentucky 42025.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at the Life Celebration Center of Filbeck-Cann.
To share a memory or leave a message for the family, please visit Jerry’s Tribute Wall at www.filbeckandcann.com.
