James E. Kallam

March 19, 2024

CHARLOTTE – James E. Kallam, 64, was called home by his Lord on Tuesday, March 19, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer.  He was born on August 20, 1959, in High Point, NC to the late Ronald Franklin Kallam and Evelyn Schilling Kallam. 

Jim graduated from High Point Central and continued his education at Appalachian State University, where he received a Bachelor of Science in Physics, and a Master’s Certificate in Business.

Jim’s I.T. career began in sales with Burrough’s Corporation (Unisys), in Wilmington, N.C.  He moved on to development and testing with Central Service Corporation (Fiserv), in Greensboro, NC.  Jim later worked for the Fiserv Orlando and Pittsburgh locations.  He then went on to work for Highmark Health (Blue Cross Blue Shield) in Pittsburgh, Pa.  Jim retired in 2019 at age 60.

Jim and his wife, Kathie, loved to travel.  They took rail and driving trips; cruised and met great friends.  Prior to his diagnosis, they spent three years in a motorhome, traveling the country.  It was the highlight of their lives. 

Jim is survived by his wife of 40 years, Kathie; his two children to which he was devoted, Wendy Garrett and her husband, Travis, and William Phifer and his wife, Michelle, and his two grandchildren, Joey and Jesse Garrett of whom he was very proud.  Also surviving are his sister, Gloria Walton and her husband, Fred; niece, Lisa Thompson and her husband, Troy; nephew, Brad Walton and his wife, Kim and sister-in-law, Cherie Burris.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at Sharon Presbyterian Church.  The family will receive friends following the service at the church.

Lastly, Jim had one final wish that all his friends attend a party to celebrate his life and memory.  The family invites you to join them starting at 3:30 PM at Bernardin’s Restaurant at Ratcliffe, 435 S. Tryon Street, Suite 100, Charlotte, NC.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be offered in memory of Jim to Sharon Presbyterian Church, 5201 Sharon Road, Charlotte, NC 28210.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.

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Comments

  • Rose and Jack Hassett

    May God comfort all of Jims loved one's and friends.

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  • Caroline Grein

    My memories of Jim are of a very intelligent and fun loving man with a clever sense of humor. He was extremely devoted to his family, which I very much appreciated as Kathy is a great friend. I used to have a great time with them, playing games and watching football. I would never say this in any other circumstance, but this is for Jim - Go Steelers! I hope Kathy can be comforted in knowing that Jim will still be watching over her.

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  • Deb Broughton

    I only met Jim once, with Kathie, because Kathie and I discovered we have a mutual ancestor. We met over lunch in the Phoenix area and I remember Jim saying he could tell Kathie and i were related. He had such an engaging laugh and a generous spirit! My heart goes out to the whole family. I know he will be missed!

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  • Peggy Bren Kobbe

    Kathy and family I am so very sorry. I had no idea of Jim’s Illness. Kathy’s family lived across from us in New Carrollton, Md. I so enjoyed seeing all the trips you two took and the love between you two. Sending my prayers to you and your family. God Bless.

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  • Becky Forsythe

    I send my deepest sympathy to Kathie and Jim’s children, grand children, and family
    I will always remember the times we shared may you rest in peace, my friend

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  • Julia Phifer

    Kathie, Wendy, Will and family, my deepest condolences go out to you. Jim was such a wonderful guy always had a smile on his face. I have been and will continue praying for you all at this sad time and your life.

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