Jack Callahan (file photo)

Jack Callahan, a former Portsmouth School Committee member and business owner active in local politics passed away today after an illness, according to a source. [updates follow]

Len Katzman, chair of the Portsmouth Democratic Town Committee said in a statement, "On behalf of the Democratic Town Committee, we extend our condolences to the family and friends of Jack Callahan. Jack was a genuine community member who was always ready and more than willing to commit his time, energy, and resources to improving our town. We are grateful for his years of service to the Portsmouth Democratic Town Committee. Long active in local politics, Jack cared about the quality of life in Portsmouth and gave much of himself to help those less fortunate. Jack was an original, full of fire and compassion. Jack, you will be missed."

School Committee member Marge Levesque, who served with Callahan for 4 years, said, "Jack was a very enthusiastic and outspoken member of School Committee who deeply believed in the democratic cause."

Update 2: According to the Memorial Funeral Home, visitation will be Wednesday 4-6pm, with service at 6. Details at Memorial Web site.

Paul Buddemeyer, father of Portsmouth School Committee member Mike Buddemeyer, passed away Sunday. Our community's heart goes out to the family and friends of Paul, a long time resident who gave so much to our town, and especially Portsmouth Little League.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, December 11, from 4-7pm in the Connors Funeral home on 55 West Main Rd., Portsmouth. Funeral will be on Friday, December 12, at 9:00 am from the Connors Funeral Home, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am in St. Barnabas Church, 1697 East Main Road, Portsmouth. Burial will be private.

With information from the Sakonnet Times and Memorial Funeral Home.