Green “Odell” Calihan, always willing to lend a hand, always happy to talk to a friend, fondly regarded by many former students, and cherished by immediate and extended family alike, passed away suddenly at home on February 22, 2024. He leaves behind a legacy of faithfulness, kindness, and profound love for family and community.

One of 10 children, Odell was born to Coolie and Versie (Lewis) Calihan deep in the Appalachian Mountains of Letcher County, Kentucky August 16, 1944. His upbringing instilled in him a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for his roots in Appalachia. Proud of his heritage, Odell sought to preserve the region's cultural tradition through storytelling, authoring several beloved children's books, one tailored for each of his four grandchildren.

After the Calihan family resettled to Mt. Carmel, Odell used his athletic talent to garner a scholarship at Cumberland College where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Health & Physical Education, as well as in Biology. Always valuing education, he later earned a Master of Education at Ball State and an Ed.S. Degree in educational supervision. Throughout his career he served in several roles at Laurel Elementary and High School, teacher, assistant principal, and principal. He semi-retired in 1999, working part time jobs as a car salesman, real estate broker, and general handyman. 

The hardship Odell faced in his young days caused him to have a deep affection for his siblings and family in general. Besides his parents, he was greeted in his passing by a son-in-law whom he admired and loved, Mark Poe; siblings, Stanley Calihan, Coolie “Junior” Calihan, Delores Fields, Sadie Wells, Freida Smith, Betty Hofer, and Pat Mays. Like his father before him, Odell loved the small farm he owned for many years in Everton. His land provided good hunting ground and a peace he found surrounded by God's creation. His greatest treasure, however, was his family. Left to cherish the role he played in their lives are his wife of 59 years, Wanda (McQuinley) Calihan; a brother, Joe (Lois) Calihan; a sister, Brenda (Gary) Ross; two sisters-in-laws, Virginia (Leonard) Harris and Margaret Jolin; a brother-in-law, Rich (Maggie) McQuinley, and many close friends. Those tasked with carrying the legacy of his values are daughters Stephanie Poe and Mandy (Ben) Harvey; four grandchildren, Caroline Poe, Julia Poe, Cooper Harvey, and Claire Harvey; as well as several close nieces and nephews.

Those who knew Odell well in his last few years, he was tired of feeling bad. His family takes comfort in knowing his body has been released from a weary body of flesh and has been given a glorified body through Christ.

We are also thankful for all the heartfelt sympathies from so many we and Odell have held dear over the years. We know you mourn with us and we pray for you in this time too. We also intend to honor Odell's wishes to not have a public service and have a simple get together of extended family at a later date. Miller, Moster, Robbins Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Online condolences may be made anytime at millermosterrobbins.com.

Paid obituary