Carol Ann Callaghan

Carol Ann Callaghan passed away on Jan. 22, 2024, at the age of 79, from complications of advanced Parkinson’s Disease. Carol was born in Seattle, WA in 1944 to Harold and Ann Callaghan. She graduated from the University of Arizona with a BS in Human Nutrition (1966) and earned MPH degrees from the University of Michigan (Maternal and Child Health & Public Health Nutrition – 1974 and Health Services Management and Policy - 1987). Her career spanned 48 years with the Michigan Department of Community Health as Senior Consultant, Diabetes Prevention and Control Program (1976-1979); Chief, Cancer Prevention and Control Section (1979-2002); and Director, Division of Chronic Disease and Injury Control (2002-retirement). Carol will be missed by family, friends, colleagues, and by countless Michigan residents who – unbeknownst to them – have benefited by Carol’s dedication to improving health care services to everyone. Carol wished to be cremated so there will not be a funeral service. Her family is planning a Celebration of Life to be held this Spring at which time we can share memories of Carol and celebrate her gifts as a sister, friend, mentor, and colleague. Carol is survived by her loving family: sisters Janice Pere (husband Charles, Chicago, IL) and Linda Simmons (husband Keith, Prescott, AZ) and brother David Callaghan (wife Teri, Phoenix, AZ); by numerous nieces and nephews; and by her “Michigan sister”, Joan Deschamps. Information about Carol’s Celebration of Life will be posted on Carol’s Facebook page and sent to the list of interested folks we are creating.