Earl Dean Kellihan

Earl Dean Kellihan, 78, of Bladenboro passed away on Thursday, January 23, 2025, while at Lower Cape Fear Life Care in Whiteville, NC. He was born in Columbus County on January 14, 1947, to the late John Gola Callihan and Susan F. Ransom Callihan.

 Earl was a man of many passions, often found tending to his garden or working as a furniture salesman. Known for his collards and his deep love of watching things grow, he had a special connection to the land. As a dedicated farmer, Earl’s love for his family was matched only by his generosity toward others. He was highly respected in his community, always ready to lend a hand whenever it was needed. His kindness, work ethic, and unwavering support will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

 He was preceded in death by his parents, John Gola Callihan and Susan R. Callihan, three brothers, Bobby, Charles, and Harry Callihan, one son Earl Dean Callihan Jr., and one daughter Elizabeth Marie Evers. He leaves behind his loving wife, Alene Norris Kellihan of the home, son Michael Kellihan (Marajo) of Bladenboro, four daughters Sueann Bustos (Jose) of Bladenboro, Christine Norris of Chadbourn, Dawn Norris of Bladenboro, and Christine Norris Marlowe of Clarkton, eight grandchildren, and three great grandchildren.

 The family will receive friends from 7-9 pm on Monday, January 27, 2025, at the Bladen Gaskins Funeral Home in Elizabethtown. A funeral service will be held at 2 pm on Tuesday, January 28, 2025 at Bladen Gaskins Funeral Home in Elizabethtown followed by a burial in the Kellihan Memorial Cemetery near 68 John & Susan Callihan Drive in Bladenboro.