Gene Caldwell's Story

Even as a little boy, Gene Caldwell was speaking up for others.  And teaching.

Known for his deep love of people - from his family to the ministry and community he served, he will truly be missed and remembered by not just his wife of forty-two years, and their five children, and thirteen grandchildren, but by a host of people around the country who he touched and built into.  As his sons noted, Eugene Caldwell, Sr. left big shoes to fill on April 18, 2020, a sentiment everyone who knew him would agree with.

Born October 27, 1953, in Cincinnati, Ohio to Henry and Ruby Caldwell, Gene learned early how to interact with all different types of people as he rose to the responsibility of interpreting for his deaf parents, lovingly bridging the gaps in their communication and their ability to be heard and seen.  It was this love and respect for his family that later led his wife Rebecca Denise to realize he was a keeper when they met in 1973; she saw that he was a family man, someone who would always be there for you when you needed him; and his warm and affectionate personality allowed him to fit right in with her family as well.

Gene and his Sweets were married on June 4, 1977 and went on to have four sons and one daughter.  He soon found the truth that would be the foundation for his marriage and his family, dedicating his life to Jehovah on May, 1, 1982; Rebecca Denise made the same decision in 1983 and they embarked on building a family and a legacy centered around their worship to Jehovah, and the witness they gave as His people; Gene made his impact as a loving and dedicated Elder in the congregation, and served for many years in the full time ministry.  A man of unshakeable conviction, integrity, and honor, his children all echo the same belief that their dad wasn't just a great father, he was a great human.

Forever a Daddy's girl, his daughter admires the teacher her father was, the patience he had for every person he encountered no matter their ability or knowledge, and how he corrected others with dignity.  Retired as a Service Area Coordinator for the Cincinnati Recreation Center after over thirty years of service to the community, and still working professionally as an interpreter, it was Gene's passion for  helping others that inspired all five of h is kids to choose careers that allow them to serve their communities too.

Gene's youngest son reflected on how their mom said it best "he was a keeper."  A best friend to all his children, he's given them the legacy he wants them to pass onto their own children and families, and the tools to rise to his level. A competitive, analytical and hard-working man grounded by his wife's commitment to his growth, he embraced many of life's joys: laughter, dancing, spending time with his kids, joking around with others, spontaneous hospitality, reading, witnessing to others, travel, the games of basketball and chess, working out, playing music a little too loud, learning new trades and so much more.  His three older sons reflected on how their father also embraced  challenges, finding common ground with anyone he met regardless of their socioeconomic status, race, or background and treating  them with genuine kindness and grace; helping young boys and men he met at the recreation centers by giving them access to him as a  father-figure and introducing them to new environments.    They embody that spirit today, in their careers, their families and their faith.

He leaves behind to continue his memory: his wife, Rebecca Denise Caldwell; his children, Eugene Caldwell, Jr., Kenneth Caldwell (Ryan), Jermaine Caldwell, Vondell Caldwell (Shekinah), Genise Caldwell; his siblings, Kenneth Caldwell (Gloria) and Carletta Caldwell-McCray (Willie);  his 13 grandchildren; nieces and nephews; and countless others who came to look to Gene as a father-figure, role model, and leader.

A visitation will be held from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m ., Friday, May 8, 2020. at Walker Funeral Home - Walnut Hills Chapel, 2625 Gilbert Avenue, Cincinnati (45206).

Walker Funeral Home, 2625 Gilbert Avenue, Cincinnati (45206) is honored to serve the Caldwell family.

ATTENTION: WEBCASTING WILL NOT START  UNTIL 4 PM.

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