Joseph Mckenzie Caldwell

Mr. Joseph McKenzie Caldwell, age 78, departed this life on Friday, January 15, 2021 at his home in Americus. He was born in Miami, Florida on September 29, 1942, a son of the late Alice McKenzie and the late Joe Caldwell. He was educated in the Miami School System and also attended Miami-Dade Community College. "Mr. Joe", as he was affectionately known, was loved and respected by his Americus community. After moving to Americus, he joined First United Methodist Church where he also worked as a custodian until his health failed. Mr. Joe was an active member and was involved in many church activities. He also started Respect Attitude Manners and RAM, and he ministered at Wilcox State Prison in Abbeville, GA. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two daughters: Annette Caldwell and Stacy Caldwell; and by his sister, Debbie Smith. Mr. Joe leaves to cherish his memories his loving wife, Martha Searcy-Caldwell of Americus; one son, Joe Caldwell of Miami; two step-sons: David Searcy (Eula) of Americus and James Searcy of Conyers; one step-daughter, Shakarri Searcy of Albany; fifteen grandchildren; seven step-grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren; two brothers: Michael Caldwell of Miami and Rodney Caldwell (Leccie) of Sandersville; two sisters: Stephanie Nixon and Alice Fontis of Miami; one uncle, Issac McKenzie of the Bahamas; two sisters-in-law: Christene Gardner and Mary Hunt of Americus; one brother-in-law, Anthony Searcy of Massachusetts; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins, including devoted cousins Jack Hadley (Christine) of Thomasville. The family would like to show appreciation to Charles and Angela Tripp, the Davis family, the Hunter family, and the entire First United Methodist Church family. Services are planned for 11:00 AM on Thursday, January 21, at the Columbarium at First United Methodist Church, with Rev. Daryl Brown officiating. The staff of Hancock Funeral Home would like to issue a gentle reminder to all attendees that, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, reasonable social distancing should be maintained at all times, and the use of face masks is required. Also, due to COVID-19 concerns, there will be no formal visitation. To sign our online guestbook and express your condolences to the family, please visit www.hancockfuneralhomeinc.com Hancock Funeral Home, 427 S. Lee St., is honored to be entrusted with these arrangements for Mr. Joseph McKenzie Caldwell.