Ruby Caldwell

Ruby Whitmore Caldwell departed this life on Saturday, Feb. 22, 2014, at her residence with her oldest son and oldest daughter by her side. She was born Jan. 9, 1932 in Mason, Tenn.. She was the tenth child of 14 siblings. Her parents, Charlie and Willie B. Whitmore; three brothers, Charles Whitmore, Preston Whitmore, Fred Whitmore: and four sisters, Artie Morris, Chesta Holly, Doll Craig, and Shirley Shellman, all preceded her in death. Ruby was a graduate of Lane College in Jackson, Tenn., along with all fourteen Whitmore children. She was also an active member of Alpha Kappa Sorority Inc. while at Lane College. She received her bachelor of science degree in elementary education. An exceptional kindergarten teacher, her fondest memories were at Normal Park Elementary School. Mrs. Caldwell retired in May of 1993 after 41 years of teaching. Ruby was a loyal member of the New Monumental Baptist Church and devoted member of the Missionary Ministry. She leaves to cherish her memory her husband of nearly 60 years (May 15), Dr. Virgil J. Caldwell. This union was blessed with four children; Cedric (Angie), Caldwell, Brentwood, Tenn., Victor (Sharon) Caldwell, Franklin, Tenn., Scottie Caldwell and Christy (Carlous) Drake, both of Chattanooga. Other survivors to her legacy are her grandchildren whom she adored, Christian Caldwell, Dallas, Texas, Julius Caldwell, Murfreesboro, Tenn., Carlous (Janelle) and Christopher Drake, Chattanooga, Ryan, Jade, and Jaylon Caldwell, Brentwood, Tenn., Camille and Victoria Caldwell, Franklin, Tenn.; and great-grandchild, Jourdyn; six sisters, goddaughter, Jamesetta Gray and godson, Tristan Kilgore, both of Chattanooga, She will be missed by many other relatives and dear friends. Funeral services will be held at noon Saturday, March 1, 2014 at New Monumental Baptist Church. The Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Ivy Beyond The Wall ceremony will be held today at 5:30 p.m. at the church, and the family will receive friends from 7-8 p.m. this evening, also at the church. Interment will take place at 10 a.m. Monday, March 3, 2014, at Chattanooga National Cemetery. Arrangements by John P. Franklin Funeral Home, 1101 Dodds Avenue, 622-9995.