Velva "Jeanie" Callahan

Velva "Jeanie" Callahan, 74, of Louisville, Kentucky, peacefully passed away on Monday, May 25, 2026. Born on October 11, 1951, to Michael and Mildred (Ditto) Clark, Jeanie’s life was a beautiful journey marked by love, warmth, and kindness.

Jeanie was a devoted mother, granny, sister, aunt, and cherished friend who touched the hearts of many. She had a deep love for nature, finding joy in traveling scenic routes—especially around Cumberland Falls—and visiting the ocean whenever she could. An avid gardener and enthusiastic fan of NASCAR and champion sports, especially the Louisville Cardinals. She carried a special pride for her hometown, Louisville, and all things Kentucky. Jeanie treasured the tradition of the Kentucky Derby, delighting in hosting lively gatherings for family and friends to celebrate the event she loved so dearly, memories that included witnessing Secretariat’s unforgettable victory.

With over fifty years of dedicated service, Jeanie retired as a legal secretary from the County Commissioner’s Office, where her charm and outgoing spirit made her a beloved colleague. She had a remarkable gift for making friends and never met a stranger, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and genuine connection.

Jeanie was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Mildred and Michael Clark; her life partner, Chris Thompson; her dear granddaughter, Lydia; and her sister, Shara Lee. She will be deeply missed by her loving daughters, Angelique Sandage and Rachel (David) Merewether, son Michael (Danielle) Jones, grandchildren Mikel, Kameryn, Duke, and Dylan, nephew Brian (Kelly) Litsey, as well as her cherished fur-babies Rex and Charlie. Her extended family and many friends will forever hold her memory close to their hearts.

In loving memory of Jeanie, the family requests contributions be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or the Kentucky Humane Society. 

A celebration of Jeanie's life will be on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. at Cornerstone Cottage in Louisville, Kentucky (3799 Bardstown Road, Louisville, Kentucky 40218) Please contact Angelique with any questions.  

To share your memories or leave a message for the family, please visit the guestbook below. Jeanie’s spirit lives on in all who knew and loved her—a true testament to a life beautifully lived.