Dorothy E. Callaham

Dorothy Elizabeth Epps Callaham peacefully departed this life on May 7, 2025. She was born on October 1, 1942, in Richmond, Virginia, to the late James Allen Mann and Marion Epps.

Mrs. Callaham was raised in the Church Hill neighborhood of Richmond, where she formed many enduring friendships that remained dear to her throughout her life. It was during her time in Church Hill that she met Charles A. “Bro” Callaham. Their union was solemnized in marriage on January 26, 1965.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Charles A. “Bro” Callaham, and by three of her six children: Sylvester E. “Buster” Epps, Ms. Marian E. “Biddy” Callaham, and Mr. Charles A. “PeeWee” Callaham III. She was also preceded in death by a dear and longtime family friend, Mr. Harry “Jack” Brown.

Dorothy was affectionately known by many as “Big Sis,” “Sis,” or “Sistah.” To her grandchildren, she was lovingly called “Grandma Su”—a name that reflected the warmth and strength she embodied throughout her life.

She was a model of selflessness and hard work, always placing the needs of others before her own. Her generous and dependable nature endeared her to all who knew her. She delighted in expressing her love through thoughtful acts, especially in the form of her signature homemade dishes—cakes, rice and bread puddings, and potato salad—which were enjoyed and remembered by many.

Professionally, Dorothy worked in the hospitality industry, where she developed numerous devoted friendships over the years. Although she did not belong to a specific church, she was baptized at an early age and accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior. She regularly tuned in to the evangelical broadcasts of New Deliverance Baptist Church in Southside, Virginia, for spiritual nourishment.

She leaves to cherish her memory two devoted daughters, Mrs. Tonetta C. Thompson (Micheal) and Ms. Patricia D. Callaham, and one beloved son, Mr. Apollo L. “Tweety” Callaham.

In addition to her children, she is survived by a large and loving family that spans multiple generations, including a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. Each of them brought her immense pride and joy and will carry forward her enduring legacy of love, strength, and generosity.

Dorothy Elizabeth Epps Callaham will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all whose lives she touched.

A  viewing will be held from 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.  on Thursday, May 15, 2025 at Wilson & Associates' Funeral Service - East Chapel, 5008 Nine Mile Rd., Richmond, VA. 

A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, May 16, 2025 at Wilson & Associates' Funeral Service - East Chapel, 5008 Nine Mile Rd., Richmond, VA. 

Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery, Richmond, VA.  

Wilson & Associates' Funeral Service - East Chapel, 5008 Nine Mile Rd., Richmond, VA is providing services of comfort to the family.