CALHOUN, Ky. — Eddie Sallee, 69, of Calhoun, passed away Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023, at his home in Calhoun. James Edward Sallee was born Jan. 16, 1954, in Owensboro, Kentucky, to the late Leo and Levetha Jewell “Jim” Varble Sallee, was raised by his aunt and uncle, Bob and Artie McGrew, was married to the former Judy Ann Dant on June 16, 1973, and was known to all as “Eddie.”
Eddie’s 69 years were marked by a deep love for his family, a passion for his community, and a legacy of hard work and dedication. His industrious spirit was evident from his teenage years when he worked at the former IGA in Calhoun, gaining valuable life lessons and forming lifelong friendships. His career journey saw him working at the Field Packing Company in Owensboro before moving on to the Charles Chips Plant in Calhoun. Subsequently, he became a valued team member at Kelly & Wilmore Construction, demonstrating his resilience and adaptability. His professional journey culminated at AT&T, where he retired as an inspector, leaving behind a legacy of diligence and dedication. Even in retirement, Eddie’s love for work didn’t falter. He continued to work part-time at Average Joe’s Auto in Calhoun, where his love for cars found a fitting outlet.
Eddie was a man of many interests, was deeply involved in his community, and was a member of Rumsey United Methodist Church. He was a proud former member of the Calhoun Lions Club, served on the McLean County Fair Board, and was currently serving on the Calhoun City Council, contributing to the vibrancy of local events. His passion for sports was well-known in the community. He found immense joy in selling golf carts, playing cards, golfing, and watching sports, particularly McLean County Basketball, St. Louis Cardinals Baseball, and University of Kentucky Basketball.
Above all, Eddie was a family man. His grandchildren were his pride and joy, and he loved supporting their activities. He was always there, cheering from the sidelines, and his love for them was evident in his enthusiastic involvement in their lives. His love for his family extended beyond the immediate circle. Eddie was known for his kind heart and his readiness to do anything he could for his family, friends, and neighbors.
Eddie had a special affinity for cars, especially the ’66 Nova, and loved attending car shows. His passion for cars was not just about their mechanics or aesthetics, but also the joy and sense of community they brought. His enthusiasm was infectious, and he was often the life of these events, sharing stories and laughter with fellow enthusiasts.
Survivors include his wife of 50 years, Judy Sallee; a son, Dustin Sallee (Deanna), of Calhoun; two grandchildren, Grace Murray (Ethan) and Harrison Sallee; a great-granddaughter due in November, Mary Catherine Murray; five brothers, Damon Sallee, of Calhoun, Billy Thompson (Patty), Jon Thompson (Ashley), Jim Thompson (Diane), all of Owensboro, Kentucky, and Paul Ray Johnson, of Calhoun; five sisters, Debbie Fitzgerrel (Richard), of Reed, Kentucky, Angela Sallee, of Calhoun, Michele Clark, of Livermore, Kentucky, Joyce Brazzell (Tom), of Sacramento, and Ava Johnson (Susan), of Hartford, Kentucky; and several nieces, nephews, and many friends.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 28, at Muster Funeral Homes, Calhoun Chapel with the Revs. Jesse Johnson and Jegin Puthenpurackal officiating. Burial will be in St. Benedict Cemetery in McLean County. Friends may visit with Eddie’s family from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Saturday at Musters in Calhoun.
The Eddie Sallee family requests that expressions of sympathy take the form of donations to the St. Benedict Cemetery Fund; 180 Kentucky 136 West; Calhoun, Kentucky 42327.
Eddie’s services will be streamed live on musterfuneralhomes.com at 2 p.m. Saturday.
Share your memories and photos of Eddie at musterfuneralhomes.com.