Gary Louis Caldwell

Gary Louis Caldwell of Wheatley passed away October 1 in an auto accident in Clarendon. He was born May 27, 1958 at Stuttgart Hospital, the 12th child of T.M. “Sonny Boy” Caldwell and Irene Heritage Caldwell.

Growing up in Aubrey and Buckhorn Communities, Gary shared a lifetime of childhood memories with his siblings and received his education in the area. He proudly earned his GED at the age of 40, proving that it is never too late to achieve a goal.

Like many who grew up in the Arkansas Delta, Gary developed a deep love for farm life. He dedicated more than 40 years to the farming and equipment business before retiring. However, retirement never meant slowing down for Gary. He enjoyed keeping busy with countless projects and always lending a hand or helping someone on the farm. Working hard and helping others were simply part of who he was.

Gary was an active and devoted member of Broadmoor Baptist Church in Brinkley, where he loved serving wherever needed. Whether working with Vacation Bible School, helping with floats, participating in Truck or Treat events or volunteering wherever an extra set of hands was needed. He found joy in serving his church and community.

He was also a former school board member, Wheatley Volunteer Firefighter, and Wheatley City Council member, always willing to give his time and serve the community he called home.

In July 1990, Gary met the love of his life, Kay Rutherford. Their love story led to marriage on July 20, 1991 in Moro. Gary was a proud father to his daughter, Janie Rose. Together, Gary and Kay built a beautiful family, welcoming the first daughter, Haley in 1994, followed by their second daughter, Macey, three years later.

Gary was a loving husband, father and Pappy. His family meant everything to him, and he lived life to the fullest alongside those he loved. He was a man of faith who never missed an opportunity to help someone. He made sure those around him understood that life is precious and that it matters where you are going when you leave this world.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents. T.M. “Sonny Boy” Caldwell and Irene Heritage Caldwell; his brothers, Ray and Thomas; and his sisters, Mary, Hazel, Donna, Margaret and Veronica.

Those left to cherish his memory include his beloved wife, Kay Caldwell; his daughters, Janie Rose, Haley (Tiaan) Jooste, and Macey Caldwell; his brother, Wayne Caldwell; his sisters, Teresia Davenport, Rita Davenport, Annie Green, Alma (Keith) Catlett and Linda Fisher; grandchildren, Landon, Rose, Kayla Rose and Joah Jooste. He also leaves his  very special family, Kallie, Janine, Janinka and Delane Van Dyk, along with a host of extended family members and dear friends.

Funeral was Tuesday, October 6 at Broadmoor Baptist Church in Brinkley and burial was in Caldwell Family Cemetery at Aubrey by Bob Neal & Sons Funeral Home of Brinkley.