Mrs. Dana Ridgeway Callahan, age 53 of Brookneal, passed away on September 28, 2024.  She was the daughter of Mr. Tommy Ridgeway and Mrs. Mary Cook Saunders.  She was the wife of Mr. Rodney Callahan.

She was preceded in death by her stepfather, S.R. Saunders.

Dana was the loving wife of Rodney Callahan for 32 years and a devoted mother to Sam Ridgeway (wife Brittney), Melanie Thurman (husband Lee), and Jonathon Callahan (wife Brittany). Her deep love for her husband, children, and grandchildren was evident in everything she did. She cherished her role as "Granny" to her five grandchildren: Dixie Moses, Emersyn Ridgeway, Riley Tucker, Callan Thurman, and Huxley Callahan.

She is also survived by her siblings, Lonnie, Sherman, and Tim Ridgeway, along with a host of special cousins, nieces, nephews, and loyal friends who will miss her dearly. Dana's warmth, kindness, and unwavering love for her family and friends will always be remembered, along with her remarkable work ethic and dedication as a jack of all trades, which inspired those around her. Her warm smile and contagious laugh brought joy to all who knew her.

She was employed at the YMCA as a preschool teacher who dearly loved all the children who walked through the door. Dana was a fighter, showing incredible strength and resilience, never letting anything bring her down, and her spirit will continue to inspire everyone who knew her.

The family will receive friends Tuesday, October 1st, from 6:30-8:30 PM at Jeffress Funeral Home, Brookneal, VA, and at other times at Rodney and Dana's home. A celebration of her life will be held Wednesday, October 2nd, at 2:00 PM at Childrey Baptist Church by Jamie Adams, with graveside services to follow in the church cemetery. The family suggests that those wishing to make memorials consider the American Cancer Society.