Reverend Thomas Leroy Caldwell, 80, of Totz departed this life on Friday, April 19, 2024, at his home. Born April 28, 1943 in Missouri, he had lived here most of his life. Thomas was a veteran of the U.S. Navy and a long-haul truck driver before retiring. He loved going to church and was a member of Lewis Creek Pentecostal Church, Shiloh Pentecostal Church at Bimble and Totz Baptist Church. He became an ordained minister in 2014. Thomas was a talented bass guitar player and enjoyed playing music in church for the Lord. He also enjoyed playing music at the Senior Citizens Center for everyone to enjoy. He enjoyed fishing and talking to people, he never met a stranger.

Thomas is preceded in death by his parents, Maudie Mull Caldwell Smith and Melvin Alfred Caldwell; four sisters, Adileen Smith, Reba Askew, Gevda Reynolds and Lottie Mae Dirlian; and two brothers, Henry Caldwell and J.V. Smith.

Survivors include his wife of 36 years, Pauline Taylor Caldwell, Totz; a sister, Mary Ann Ashton and husband, Bill, Collierville, TN; and two brothers, James Caldwell and wife, Betty, Tennessee; and Ralph Smith, Jr. and wife, Diane, Brinkley, AR; and a host of nieces, nephews, other family and friends.

Visitation will be held Tuesday from 4 until 9 pm at the Lewis Creek Pentecostal Church at Partridge.

Funeral services will be conducted on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, at 1 pm at the Lewis Creek Pentecostal Church at Partridge with Pastor Ron Oplinger officiating. Immediately following the funeral services Military rites will be observed by the Harlan Honor Guard.

Burial will be in the Taylor Cemetery on White Mountain in Arjay, KY with family and friends serving as pallbearers.

The Caldwell family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff of Bluegrass Hospice Care Navigators, the V.A. staff and so many different churches who showed their love, support, assistance and prayers for Thomas and his family during his illness.

Harlan Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Reverend Thomas Leroy Caldwell.