TRENTON, N.J. – New Jersey is mourning the loss of Linda Callahan, the wife of recently retired New Jersey State Police Superintendent Colonel Pat Callahan, whose death prompted an emotional statement from Governor Phil Murphy over the weekend.
Murphy and First Lady Tammy Murphy described themselves as “heartbroken” by the passing of Callahan, who was remembered as a woman of faith, compassion, and strength. The governor praised her lifelong dedication to service alongside her husband, noting that the couple spent more than three decades working to improve the lives of residents across the state.
Linda and Pat Callahan were known not only for their public service but also for their deep personal bond. High school sweethearts, the two built a life rooted in family and community. Together, they raised four children and welcomed grandchildren while navigating decades of commitment to New Jersey’s law enforcement community.
Callahan, a devoted nurse, humanitarian, and mother whose life reflected faith, compassion, and service to others, died Monday at her Warren County home surrounded by family. She was 57.
A Mount Olive High School graduate, Callahan earned her nursing degree from the County College of Morris and spent her career caring for others as a registered nurse. Her commitment to service extended well beyond her profession. A devout Christian, she volunteered on mission trips to Haiti, Appalachia, Philadelphia, and other communities, offering comfort and care to those most in need.
Gov. Phil Murphy remembered Callahan for her faith and her impact on others. “Tammy and I are heartbroken by the passing of Linda Callahan,” Murphy said. “Linda and her husband, recently retired New Jersey State Police Superintendent Colonel Pat Callahan, devoted more than three decades to serving the people of our state — and in that time, they became dear friends to us and to so many across New Jersey.”
Callahan, the daughter of Robert and Blanche Wonderly, was married to her high school sweetheart, Patrick Callahan, who retired as superintendent of the New Jersey State Police on December 31, 2025. Together, they raised four children — Steven, Cassidy, Ryan, and Carrie Ann — and she cherished her role as “Lolly” to her grandchildren Brooks, Madison, Shaelynn, and Caden.
Murphy said Callahan’s faith guided her through life’s challenges, including surviving the devastating 2010 earthquake in Haiti during a mission trip. “She drew from her experience to take meaningful action — raising awareness and building upon her lifelong commitment to volunteerism,” he said. “She deeply believed in helping those in need and worked tirelessly to make the world more compassionate and just.”
An avid gardener, Callahan found peace in nurturing plants, reflecting the patience and gentleness she extended to everyone around her. Her family described her garden as a mirror of her spirit — vibrant, attentive, and full of life.
A memorial visitation will be held Thursday, January 15, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Cochran Funeral Home, 905 High Street, Hackettstown. A Christian funeral service will follow Friday, January 16, at 10:30 a.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church, 213 Main Street, Hackettstown.
Linda Callahan will be remembered as a woman of faith, compassion, and service whose life touched countless others.
Murphy highlighted Linda’s resilience and humanitarian work following her survival of the 2010 earthquake in Haiti. That life-altering experience, he said, inspired her to continue championing volunteerism and compassion, dedicating herself to helping others and raising awareness for causes close to her heart.
In his statement, Murphy extended condolences to Colonel Callahan and the family, offering prayers for comfort during what he called “an incredibly difficult time.”
Linda Callahan’s life was defined by faith, service, and devotion to family and community.
