Obituary of Richard Caldwell

Richard Clayton (Dick) Caldwell 87 of Salem, went to his heavenly home on Friday, February 3, 2012. He was a native of Craig County, Virginia. Dick was a graduate of Virginia Tech and served proudly in the United States Army and retired after 22 years of service. He also was a Commandant of Hargrave Military Academy from 1966 to 1977. He moved to Salem in 1977 where he taught in the Roanoke County School system, served in several military organizations, held local, state and regional offices in the Military Order of World Wars. A devoted follower of Jesus Christ, a Sunday school teacher and an active member of Lakeside Baptist Church. Dick was preceded by his parents, Cecil and Mabel Crowder; brother, Bertrand Crowder; granddaughter, Stephanie Davis Swinson. Surviving are his loving and devoted wife of 63 years, Ellen Marie Caldwell ; children, Ellen Linderose and husband Rick, Samuel R. Caldwell and wife Harriet, Daniel T. Caldwell and wife Bobbi, David C. Caldwell and wife Mariana; 11 grandchildren; 22 great grandchildren; 1 great great grandchild; brother, Herbert Crowder and wife Jennie and sister-in-law, Dorothy Crowder. A service celebrating Dick's life will be held 2:00pm Wednesday, February 8, 2012 in Simpson Funeral Chapel with Pastor Art Hearne officiating. Interment will follow in Old Dominion Memorial Gardens. Friends may visit with the family Tuesday, February 7, 2012 from 2:00-4:00pm and 6:00-8:00pm at Simpson Funeral Home. Arrangements handled by Simpson Funeral Home and Crematory, 366-0707.