01/10/2026
Jeffrey Callaway
Jeff Callaway, musician and educator, passed away on January 10, 2026, at the age of 62. Born on February 20, 1963, in Jackson, Mississippi, Jeff led a life rich in music performance, teaching, and working in the restaurant industry. Jeff moved as a child with his family to Starkville, MS, where his father continued his education at Mississippi State University.
Jeff's life was a reflection of one of his favorite book series, "The Lord of the Rings," where J.R.R. Tolkien reminds us that "All who wander are not lost." After his 1981 graduation from Starkville High School, Jeff began his academic career at Mississippi State University. After his sophomore year, Jeff transferred to the University of Mississippi and began work on a degree in music education. His successful undergrad tenure included outstanding work with all the elements of the Ole Miss music department, but especially "The Mississippians" jazz band, where he was often a featured player. Along the way, Jeff was also principal trombone in the Ole Miss Wind Ensemble, section leader, and Drum Major of "The Pride of the South Marching Band." Always a creative person, Jeff developed not only his jazz improvisatory skills but also began to dabble in music arranging for various mediums, including marching band and trombone ensemble.
A variety of graduate school experiences followed his 1986 Ole Miss graduation. Stops included Henderson State, VanderCook College of Music, and then a return to Oxford and Ole Miss. His stay in Chicago at VanderCook was especially meaningful when he landed a dual job at the Hyatt-Regency "Big Bar," where he tended bar but was also part of a select band that would put down their barware, grab their horns, and entertain those assembled with a variety of jazz and funk selections. It was during this time that Jeff really polished his instrumental skills that were to benefit him for the rest of his life.
Jeff briefly taught Band in Philadelphia and Batesville and was a fixture with high school and community college bands around the state during summer pre-school preparations. However, playing was his first love, and he found himself in Oxford as an in-demand player. Through the years, he was regularly seen locally and around the state, fronting his own band, sitting in with others, and eventually self-publishing his CD of original music, "That Was the Motet." He was seen with such prestigious performers as Marty Stuart and Dan Akroyd. He could also be heard on MPB's Thacker Mountain Radio, working studio gigs in Memphis and Jackson, Capital City Stage Band, and the Dee Barton Jazz Orchestra. Of special significance to him was his contributions to the Russell Experience with their annual performances for the Black Congressional Caucus in Washington, DC.
Jeff was an indelible part of Oxford culture. Those who knew him and played with him continually sang his praises as a consummate artist and passionate friend. His impact on the cultural scene of Oxford will long be remembered.
In addition to his musical pursuits, Jeff worked as a cook at two restaurants, Volta Taverna in Oxford and The Crawdad Hole in Water Valley. His passions extended beyond music and cooking; he had a unique flair for graphic design, blending his creative interests seamlessly.
Jeff was known for his encouraging words to others, his fountain of knowledge on various topics, his deep passions, and for being a true friend.
He is survived by his loving sister, Amy (Timothy) McCauley, who will cherish the memories of their time together. Jeffrey was preceded in death by his father, Robert A. Callaway, and his mother, Charlene Watkins Callaway.
A visitation will be held at Parker Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Bruce, MS, on January 13, 2026, at 1:00 PM. A funeral service will begin at 2:00 PM with Bro. Fish Robinson officiating, where friends and family are invited to celebrate his life and legacy. A brief graveside service will follow. He will be laid to rest at 474 Hwy 9N, Bruce, MS 38915. Jeff will be deeply missed by all who knew him and will live on in the hearts of those he inspired.
The Staff of Parker Memorial Funeral Home is honored to serve the Callaway family as they begin this new season of life. We ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers as they mourn the loss of their loved one.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations can be made to either the Lafayette Animal Shelter, or the Oxford City Farmer's Market.
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