Mary A. Caldwell

Mary Ann Caldwell, a beloved homemaker, passed away on August 28, 2023 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, leaving behind a legacy of love and devotion. She was born on November 5, 1939, in Browns Creek, Oklahoma. Mary dedicated her entire life to tending to the needs of her husband and children, finding fulfillment in the joy she brought to their lives. She married Burris Caldwell on August 10, 1957 and spent 61 years together, until his passing in 2018. She had an incredible talent for cooking and was particularly known for her delicious coffee cake, which was her husband's favorite. The aroma of her baked goods would fill the house, creating an atmosphere of love and comfort. In addition to her culinary skills, Mary enjoyed  sewing. She crafted clothes for her children by hand and enjoyed making aprons, and doll and barbie clothes. Beyond her homemaking abilities, Mary had a fondness for shopping. Purses and shoes held a special place in her heart, and she could spend hours exploring stores in search of the perfect additions to her collection. Yet it was not material possessions that brought her the most happiness; it was the connections she forged with others. Mary found solace in faith and community. She attended singings, camp meetings, and listening to music that touched her soul. Being a member of Oneta Holiness Church provided her with a sense of belonging and spiritual guidance, and a chance to cook for others. Her friends described her as loving, friendly, and hospitable. Entertaining others brought joy to Mary's heart as she found delight in creating wonderful memories with food and fellowship. Mary's passing has left a void in the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know her. May she rest in eternal peace as her memory lives on in our hearts.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, September 1, 2023 in the House of Prayer in Tulsa, Oklahoma with Brother Daryl Brewer officiating. Burial will follow in the Vernon Cemetery with Burris Shultz, Kendall Shultz, Nik Young, Anthony Brewer, Aaron Brewer, and Deven Whitehouse serving as casket bearers. Visitation will also be held in the House of Prayer from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., on Thursday, August 31, 2023. To leave her family a message, please visit her Tribute Wall at www.shipmansfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Shipman's Funeral & Cremation Service. 

Mary is survived by her daughters, Rhonda Shultz and husband Gregory of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, Theresa Brewer and husband Mark of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma and Pamela Fox of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma; brother, Bill Childress and wife Bonita of Bristow, Oklahoma; 7 grandchildren, Burris Shultz, Kendall Shultz, Kendra Young, Anthony Brewer, Aaron Brewer, Tresa Whitehouse, and Gina Fox; 14 great grandchildren, Ari, Shalae, Shaylin, Andrew, Caisha, Tyman, Trax, Nathan, Jonathan, Titus, Levi, Adam, Kaitlin, Little Belle; and many other relatives and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents, Theodore and Anna Jane Childress; husband, Burris Caldwell; and brothers, Eugene, Aubrey, JR, and ST Childress.