In her thirteenth year as coroner of Fannin County, Rebecca “Becky” Callihan was honored by the Georgia Coroners Association (GCA) with the A.R. King Award.
Not realizing she was being presented the award, Callihan was surprised at the sight of her daughter and family walking in during what she thought was a regular GCA meeting in which she serves as secretary.
“I love being with the families when they need somebody the most,” Callihan said. “It’s just a blessing. I’m blessed to do it, and I am blessed with two ladies that are wonderful, and Rebecca (Hughson) I call on her at two in the morning, and she’s like, ‘I’m on my way.’ ... I’m just still blown away (about receiving the award).”
As far as doing the job, she said she loves serving the community more than anything.
Named after the association’s “father,” the award is presented each year “in honor of outstanding public servants.” Only one coroner from across Georgia has presented the award annually.
Callihan has over 20 years of experience as a firefighter and paramedic. She serves as the treasurer for Fannin County’s Shop with a Cop program, and she is a member of the Kiwanis Club of Blue Ridge.
“Becky is just a phenomenal boss,” Deputy Coroner Rebecca Hughson said. “She helps our office tremendously, along with the public and community. ... She’s a blessing to this community and to our office, and we love her. And, she’s just an amazing person.”