Allen Cornell CALLAWAY

Allen Callaway was born on August 11, 1963, in St. Charles, Missouri, to Wendell Lee Callaway Sr. (Sweetpea) and Phyllis Callaway. He was the fourth of ten children raised with love, laughter, and strong roots at 1029 Washington Street. On August 1st, surrounded by those who loved him most, Allen departed this world peacefully, exactly as he lived — on his own terms and with a quiet grace. Preceded in death by his parents and beloved sisters Mona and Theresa (Terry), Allen’s presence in the lives of his family remains constant and cherished. Allen graduated from St. Charles High School in 1982 and worked diligently for the local school district for 19 years. But beyond any title or job, Allen’s true legacy was the life he built with intention and love. In 1987, he met his lifelong partner and soulmate, Karla Medley. Together, over 38 beautiful years, they created a home full of warmth, laughter, and love. The birth of their son, Aaron Gene, on December 10, 2002, brought Allen his greatest joy. Aaron was the light of his life and his proudest accomplishment. Allen lived simply, peacefully, and without pretense. He had no need for fanfare or the spotlight. His was a spirit content with quiet mornings, good music, and the calm of nature. In his later years, many would describe him as laid-back — but those who knew him best understood that Allen was a man at peace. He found contentment in life’s simplest pleasures, never chasing trends or needing approval. He was unapologetically himself — a throwback soul who stood firmly in who he was and what mattered most: his family, his freedom, and his peace of mind. His happy place was anywhere with a fishing pole, especially beside a still bank with the sun overhead and a cold beer in hand. Those quiet moments in nature were sacred to him. He shared a special bond with his father, and some of Allen’s fondest memories were those fishing trips with his mom and dad. They were truly two peas in a pod. Though he didn’t follow the news or care about the latest craze, Allen had his own timeless style. Often seen with his signature ball cap, tube socks pulled high, shorts grazing the hem, and a plain tee, Allen wore comfort and confidence like a badge of honor. His response to questions about his plans or whereabouts was classic Allen — either “I’m on a mission” or “I’m maintaining” or simply “none ya.” It was never rude — just real. And that’s who he was: real, steady, and true. He loved baseball, especially the St. Louis Cardinals, found joy in hunting and tinkering with cars, and had a deep passion for yard work and gardening, always with jazz, classic rock, or reggae playing in the background. Music and soil — those were two of his favorite forms of therapy. His family affectionately called him “Gator,” a name that stuck and symbolized the unique, irreplaceable role he played in all their lives. Allen was a devoted brother to Rauchel Steele, Wendell Callaway Jr. (Alletta), Jeffrey Callaway (Shelly), Monica Middleton (William), Tiffany Rodney (Steve), Jennifer Coleman, and Jason Callaway (Rebecca). He is reunited in peace with his sisters and parents. He leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews who will carry his memory with them always. Allen lived a life that didn’t seek attention, but rather, offered a quiet example of what it means to be content — to find joy in the everyday, to love deeply, and to walk this earth in peace. His presence will be missed, but his legacy of authenticity, simplicity, and love will live on in all who knew him.

Allen Cornell CALLAWAY

August 11, 1963 - August 1, 2025