Willie Caldwell

Willie Caldwell, a beloved figure of the community, passed away on Saturday - August 17, 2024 at the Mary Breckinridge ARH Hospital in Hyden, KY, at the age of 84. Born on October 28, 1939, in Bad Creek, Hoskinston, KY, he was a lifelong resident of Leslie County and a steadfast member of the Church of Christ. His faith grounded him, providing both guidance and a sense of purpose throughout his life, while he also proudly served as a member of the Hyden Masonic Lodge #664. His journey through life was marked by dedication, primarily embodied in his distinguished career as a coal miner. Willie's industrious spirit shone brightly during his 32 years with Whitaker Coal Company, followed by one year with Cardinal Resources. Through labor, he instilled a robust work ethic in his children, demonstrating the value of commitment and perseverance. Beyond the rigors of work, Willie found joy in the simple pleasures of life. Each day began with a ritual of two Reese Cups and a steaming cup of coffee—an endearing quirk that encapsulated his humorous approach to life. A story emerged when faced with medical advice to abstain from food, Willie innocently declared he had not eaten, viewing his daily indulgence not as a violation but as a cherished routine. This blend of humor and innocence painted a picture of a man who found joy in small delights. Life away from the coal mines was vibrant for Willie. He had a passion for gardening, fishing, hunting, and digging ginseng, all activities that echoed his connection to nature and the land he cherished. His deep appreciation for the outdoors was matched only by the warmth he shared with his family—a testament to his character as both a devoted provider and a source of laughter.

Willie leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion, enveloped in the hearts of his surviving family. He is survived by his sons, Doug Caldwell of Hyden, KY; Clay Caldwell of Wooton, KY; Gary Caldwell and wife Tina of Yeaddiss, KY; Glen Caldwell and wife Kimberly of Wooton, KY; and Scottie Caldwell and wife Billie of McKee, KY. His daughters, Jossie Smith and husband David of Yeaddiss, KY, and Robin Wooton and husband Tony of Wooton, KY, daughter-in-law, Teresa Caldwell of Wooton, KY., carry forward his spirit of kindness and hard work. Willie's cherished brother, Dale Caldwell, Jr., resides in Yeaddiss, KY, alongside his sisters, Catherine Burns and husband Carlo of London, KY, and Bernice Britton of London, KY. To them, he was not just family; he was their guiding influence, respected and loved.  Willie's extensive family includes 20 treasured grandchildren, featuring his special grandson Brandon Caldwell, as well as 31 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren, each one holding a piece of his heart and his enduring legacy.

He reunites now with his beloved wife Evelyn Adams Caldwell, as well as his parents, Dale and Sina Browning Caldwell, and his son Wayne Caldwell, along with daughters-in-law Venita Carol Caldwell and Debbie Caldwell. His siblings, Sarah Jane Caldwell and Dewey Caldwell, await him as well, all of whom will surely share in the warmth of memories made together.

A visitation will be held in his honor on Moday - August 19, 2024, from 5 PM to 9 PM at the Dwayne Walker Funeral Home in Hyden, KY, with full masonic rites observed by the Hyden Masonic Lodge # 664 at 7:00 P.M. . The funeral service will be on conducted Tuesday -  August 20 at 1 PM, at the same location, with Donnie Melton and Keith Bowling officiating.  Interment will follow in the Caldwell-Smith Family resting Place at Yeaddiss, KY. The following will serve as pallbearers: his sons, Huck Pennington, Bruce Allen Maggard, and Johnny Darrell Turner.  As we gather to celebrate Willie’s remarkable life, we remember a man whose laughter and love resonated deeply within all who had the privilege to know him. May his spirit guide us, nestled forever in the fond memories he created and the timeless lessons he imparted.