The Rev. Dr. Virgil Julius Caldwell on Wednesday, April 22, 2015, was called by God to his heavenly home and to be united with his the love of his life, his wife Ruby. Virgil is the son of the late Rev. James A. Caldwell and Mrs. Scottie V. Caldwell of Jackson, Tenn. He was preceded in death by his two sisters, Nellie J. Foust and Jimmie R. Warford. Dr. Caldwell attended Merry High in Jackson, Tenn. He completed his undergraduate work at Lane College in Jackson, Tenn., where he earned his Bachelors of Arts degree. He then served two years of military service in Korea. In 1957, he received in Master of Arts degree from Columbia University, New York, New York. He continued his education by earning his doctorate degree of Ministry from Luther Rice Seminary in Jacksonville, Fla. Dr. Caldwell was a kind, stern, but soft-spoken, multi-talented man who touched the hearts and lives of many individuals who have been fortunate enough to know him. With his Christian principles and genuine interest in equal rights and humanity, kindled a spark in the lives of all who knew him. He had a dynamic personality and his belief in the potentialities of his past students contributed to the success both from an academic standpoint, religious and personal development. Dr. Caldwell is the author of 18 books and also has written and performed numerous plays. He has written Sunday School Literature for more than two decades for the National Baptist Convention. He is an outstanding musician. He has recorded three albums, while playing the saxophone and the piano. Dr. Caldwell discontinued his employment as a public school social studies teacher, choir director and band instructor in Union City, Tenn., when he was called to be the pastor of New Monumental Baptist Church in 1968. He served the congregation, along with his first lady Ruby for 40 years. He retired in 2008, and was given the honor of pastor emeritus. Dr. Caldwell has served as moderator of the Chattanooga District Association and President of the Tennessee B.M. and E. Convention. Dr. Caldwell loved to travel. He has traveled all over the United States preach the gospel. He has traveled to several countries, but his most rewarding experience was the opportunity to visit the Holy Land and to preach in Liberia Africa. Not only traveling for religious purposes, he enjoyed driving long distances with his family every summer and holidays with his family. The family trips were always teachable moments to enhance their learning experiences to assure his four children would be well-rounded individuals. Dr. Caldwells kindred spirit always believed the best in everyone. He never missed an opportunity to make others happy. Not only did Dr. Caldwell love this song, he lived this song; "If I Can Help Somebody, as I pass along. If I can cheer somebody, with a word or song, If I can show somebody, how theyre traveling wrong, Then my living shall not be in vain." In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions to "Hands on Productions" C/O Cedric and Victor Caldwell, 517 Copperfield Way, Brentwood, TN 37027, or Lane College, 544 Lane Avenue, Jackson, TN 38301; in memory of Rev. Dr. Virgil J. Caldwell. Dr. Caldwell is survived by his four children, Cedric J. Caldwell (Angie), of Brentwood, Tenn., Victor W. Caldwell (Sharon), of Franklin, Tenn., Scottie B. Caldwell (Alan Knox), of Chattanooga and Christy C. Drake (Carlous) of Chattanooga; grandchildren, Christian Allana, Carlous (Janelle), Julius, Ryan, Camille, Jade, Jaylon, Christopher; great-granddaughter, Jourdyn. Several nephews, nieces, cousins and a host of family and friends. Funeral services will be held at noon on Friday, May 1, 2015, at New Monumental Baptist Church with Pastor Rodrick Ware, officiating and Rev. Kenneth Scaife, Eulogist....
[Contributor: Globe101]