James William “Cotton” Calahan, Jr., age 75, of Shelbyville, passed from this life Wednesday, July 26, 2023, at Ascension St. Thomas Hospital.

A native of Bedford County, James was born on October 30, 1947; he was the son of the late James W. Calahan, Sr. & Viola Arnold Calahan. Along with his parents he was preceded in death by an infant son.

James was a graduate of SCHS class of 1966 and served his country in the U.S. Air Force. He was a retiree of AEDC after 34 ½ years of employment as a metal worker/ fitter and he was a member of Miracle Tabernacle Church.

James had many interest and hobbies; he enjoyed: baseball, playing cards, shooting pool, dirt track racing, hill claiming and archer. He was an animal lover, especially his dogs.

He is survived by: loving wife of 25 years, Cindy Rittenberry Calahan of Shelbyville; sons, Jimmy (Scarlette) Calahan and Daniel Calahan both of Shelbyville; and two grandsons, Ben and Rees Calahan.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held 6 p.m. Wednesday, August 2, 2023, in the chapel of Doak-Howell Funeral Home with Pastor Joshua Moore officiating.

Visitation will be held prior to services on Wednesday, August 2, beginning at 4 p.m. at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made to Shelbyville-Bedford Humane Association @ www.shelbyvillebedfordhumane.org .

Doak-Howell Funeral Home is serving the family. www.doakhowellfuneralhome.com