Jeffrey Dale McCallister

Jeffrey Dale McCallister, age 50, of Orange Park, Florida, passed away on Thursday, January 9, after a long illness. Jeff was born in Huntington, West Virginia, on March 20, 1974, son of Brenda C. [Rumbaugh] and James E. McCallister.

Jeff graduated from Interlachen High School in 1992, and earned an associate’s degree in Business from Santa Fe Community College in Gainesville. On December 20, 1997, Jeff married Shari Fouts in Pittsburg, Kansas, and was married until April of 2003. Among other jobs, Jeff worked for Shands Hospital, as a manager in a temporary employment agency, and as a manager most recently, before his stroke, was the manager at the Copper Monkey restaurant in Jonesville.

Until his stroke, Jeff loved riding motorcycles, driving his Jeep, and working on cars. He supported and was supported by many friends in the Gainesville and Jacksonville areas. He helped with Habitat for Humanity, loved dogs – especially German Shepherds, and cats. He did not like vegetables. 

Jeff is survived by his daughter, Mackenzie Leigh Thieman, son-in-law Hughes Thieman, sister Tammy McCallister, and ex-wife Shari Rice, along with several cousins and extended family. He is preceded in death by both parents, Brenda and Jim McCallister. 

Instead of a formal funeral service, Jeff wanted a celebration of life at the beach, which will be announced at a later date. Instead of flowers, his family asks those who are interested to make a donation to their local animal rescue or shelter in Jeff’s name.