Robert M. Caldwell, Jr.

Robert Manfred Caldwell, Jr., “Dozy”, 78, of Evans, GA, passed away April 19, 2022, in Evans. Dozy was born March 26, 1944, in Mount Airy, North Carolina, son of the late Clara Ponton Caldwell and Dr. Robert M. Caldwell, Sr. He was the beloved husband of Susan McNee Caldwell for 38 years and also left behind his cat, “Kit-tay.” In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his dog, “Girl”, and sister and brother-in-law, Roberta Lee Fawcett and T. Garnet Fawcett. Dozy attended Mt. Airy High School and Staunton Military Academy, enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1965 and was a graduate of Western Carolina University. After serving a year overseas as an enlisted Marine, he was chosen to attend officer training. Dozy was commissioned as a 2nd lieutenant and served in Vietnam as an infantry platoon commander and then as a company commander. He received two Purple Hearts and, by the end of his military career, achieved the rank of major. He rarely spoke of his military service, but when asked about his time overseas in Vietnam, he would lightheartedly say, “I was studying abroad.” Dozy remained acutely aware he was fortunate to survive Vietnam, while friends and other service men and women did not. As one expression of gratitude, he became a volunteer for the Department of Veterans Affairs and was recognized for his dedicated service to hospitalized veterans. He enjoyed a nearly 40-year sales career in the aluminum and textile industries that created opportunities for Dozy and Susan to live in many areas of the United States. After retiring, he became a licensed realtor, also certified in business and commercial brokerage. While living in Dalton and Buford, Georgia, his fondness for aircraft was satisfied working part-time as an avionics technician utilizing skills acquired early in his military career. Nature, sailing, traveling, reading, and jogging were some things he enjoyed. In later years, unable to run, he became an avid walker and continued until his death. In addition to Susan and Kit-tay, left to cherish his memory are numerous sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, and treasured friends. He will forever be remembered as a loving husband, gentleman, friend, and good Marine. Semper Fidelis. A memorial service will be held Wednesday, October 19, 2022, at 11:00 AM, at the Moody Funeral Home Chapel with military honors conducted by the United States Marine Corps Honor Guard.  In lieu of flowers, gifts in memory of Dozy can be made to: The Salvation Army, 651 S. South Street, Mt. Airy, NC 27030.  Moody Funeral Service of Mount Airy is serving the Caldwell family.  Online condolences may be made at www.moodyfuneralservices.com.