Dr. Fred Caldwell passed away at his home on Monday, Jan 11, 2022, at 4 p.m. after his battle with cancer for the past several months. He was surrounded by his family.
He was born to Fred and Vera Caldwell Oct. 29, 1931, in Jonesboro, Arkansas. They preceded him in death.
Fred graduated from high school in Jonesboro, and then attended Arkansas State University. After graduation, he served in Korea in the U.S. Army as First Lieutenant in the artillery.
Upon return from Korea, he married his first and only love, Patty Sue Gayle, from Poplar Bluff, Missouri. She preceded him in death in 2008.
After marriage, he attended college at University of Arkansas to obtain a degree in microbiology. He was then admitted to medical school at the University of Arkansas and graduated in 1960. He completed an internship in Family Practice and moved to Poplar Bluff in 1961 and joined the Kniebert Clinic group.
He retired from Kniebert Clinic after 25 years and went into private practice. He later formed Northwest Medical Center with Dr. Davis Brookreson and Dr. Alex Hoja. Over the next several years, the Northwest Medical Center grew into a multispecialty group practice. He completed his career in medicine and retired in 2000.
During his time in Poplar Bluff, he attended First Baptist Church as an active member as a teacher in his early years and a deacon for the past several decades. He loved his church family and opportunities to serve his Savior, Jesus Christ.
He also served locally on the board of the United Gospel Rescue Mission, as well as the board for Missouri Baptist Children’s Home. He was a prior president of the R-1 School Board and served on the board for the local housing authority.
He is survived by three children: Steve Caldwell of Sikeston, Missouri; Dr. F. Michael Caldwell (Jenni) of Poplar Bluff; and daughter, Cindy Caldwell Worley (Curtis) of Poplar Bluff.
Eight grandchildren: Lyndsey Caldwell, Logan Caldwell (Katie), Jordan Worley (Lauren), Taylor Worley Gilberto (Anderson), Connor Worley, Cameron Caldwell, Davis Caldwell (Mary Mattison) and Elizabeth Caldwell Roth (Samuel).
Two great-grandchildren: Kennedy Worley and Carson Gilberto.
One brother, Dr. Joseph Caldwell; nephews. Random and Clay Gott and brother-in-law Bill Gott, and many other loving family and friends.
A memorial service will begin at 11 a.m. Friday, Jan 14, at First Baptist Church, Poplar Bluff. Dr. William Vail and Dr. Brandon Spain will officiate. Graveside service to follow at Memorial Gardens.
Due to the current local incidence of COVID infection, there will be no visitation.
Memorials may be sent to First Baptist Church of Poplar Bluff, Missouri Baptist Children’s Home, or the United Gospel Rescue Mission.
Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral and Cremation Services is honored to serve the family of Dr. Fred Caldwell. Online condolences may be expressed at www.willowridgefcs.com.