Caldwell, Virgil J.

On Wednesday, April 22, 2015, God called the Rev. Dr. Virgil Julius Caldwellto his heavenly home and to be united with his the love of his life, his wife Ruby.

Virgil was the son of the late Rev. James A. Caldwell and Mrs. Scottie V. Caldwell of Jackson, Tn.

He was preceded in death by his two sisters, Nellie J. Foust and Jimmie R. Warford. 

Dr. Caldwell attended Merry High in Jackson, TN. He completed his undergraduate work at Lane College in Jackson, TN, where he earned his bachelor 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 was 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, TN 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 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 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. Caldwell’s 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 they’re 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 TN; Victor W. Caldwell (Sharon) of Franklin, TN; 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 on Friday, May 1, at noon at New Monumental Baptist Church with Pastor Rodrick Ware officiating and Reverend Kenneth Scaife as eulogist. Interment will be in Chattanooga National Cemetery at 2:30 p.m. 

Public viewing will take place at New Monumental Baptist Church from 12–6 p.m. on Thursday. A musical and memorial and musical celebration will begin at 6 p.m., also at the church.

Arrangements by John P. Franklin Funeral Home, 1101 Dodds Ave., 622-9995.