Shirley R. Caldwell

Shirley R. Caldwell, a native of Hudson Oaks, Texas passed away October 22nd at the age of 85.
She began her higher education at Wharton Junior College, where she reconnected with a childhood friend, Ray Caldwell. They were a perfect match even at the beginning; Shirley was a cheerleader, and Ray, a football player. They eventually transferred to Southwest Texas State Teacher’s College (now known as Texas State University) where Shirley worked for her tuition as a legal secretary. She was also elected as a Gallardian at STSTC, a contest based on popularity, beauty, and moral character.
Ray and Shirley were married in 1952 on the television show, “Bride & Groom” on the CBS Network in New York City, a great adventure for two small town sweethearts. They were also treated to a two-week honeymoon tour of New England. They settled in New Gulf, Texas, where Shirley began her career as an educator. It was there they started their family, and later moved to Richmond, Texas, where they lived until retirement. Ray and Shirley lived out their retirement years in Waco and Weatherford, Texas. They enjoyed frequent and numerous national road trips, together, and with their three grandchildren. Together, they have visited all 48 of the continental United States.
Throughout her life, Shirley was an active servant of her community and church. She returned to Southwest Texas in the 1960s to seek a certification in counseling, to further expand her reach in the public school system. She provided guidance to hundreds of people throughout her years as a high school counselor, and throughout her life. In her later years, she and Ray were especially active in Lay Renewal Ministries all over the United States. They also sang in the Baylor Choir together, performing in concerts all over the country (including Carnegie Hall in New York City!).
Shirley was, in short, a very special lady. All who knew her were touched by her generous spirit. She never met a stranger, never hesitated to share the gospel of Jesus Christ, or tell anyone who would listen about her many blessings. She fought a determined battle against leukemia, outliving her initial prognosis by nearly 20 years.
Shirley is survived by her sons Allen, Jim, and Jim’s wife Debbie; grandchildren, Meagan and her husband Eric, Jacob & Zachary; and brother Harvey Reynolds. She was preceded in death by her husband Ray, and parents, Ethel and James Reynolds, and sister Jimma Lee Shanks.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00pm Friday October 24th at Spring Creek Baptist Church in Weatherford, Texas. Son Jim Caldwell & the Reverend Steve McCaslin will officiate.