Catalina Caldwell

Catalina Caldwell, 86, passed away Thursday, April 14, 2022, in Abilene, Texas.

The most important thing to know about Catalina is that she was the most loving, caring, supportive, and generous example of God’s love that her family could ever hope for, and she enriched the lives of many people in many places.

Catalina was born on February 13, 1936 to Ignacia and Andres Benavides, and grew up in Nuevo Laredo, Mexico. Years later, she married a military man - Floyd Caldwell - with whom she had five children and lived in many places around the country, as well as internationally. When her husband died in Vietnam and Catalina was made a widow with five young children, she moved to Abilene to attend Abilene Christian University and raise her children in a Christian town.

Among her proudest accomplishments, she obtained her Bachelors and Master’s Degrees in Education from ACU and was recipient of the ACU Morlan Medal award for her contributions to the field of education.

Catalina was a remarkable woman of incredible wisdom, strength and perseverance. She exemplified steadfast love, faith and clear values. As such, she set a beautiful example of Christian, heart-centered living for all who knew her.

A devout Christian, Catalina was a member of the Hillcrest Church of Christ.

She is survived by her five children, Connie Carroll, Marguerite Orocio, Floyd Caldwell, Glenn Caldwell and Lora de la Cruz, and many grandchildren who love and cherish her dearly. Catalina’s legacy will be the love she generously gave to all.

To honor Catalina’s wishes, there will be a private family gathering in lieu of a service. Many people in Abilene knew and loved Catalina and may want to commemorate her. Her favorite hymns were “How Great Thou Art” and “It is Well With My Soul.”  For anyone who wishes to honor her, a beautiful way to do so would be to hold her in their heart next time they sing or hear these hymns.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Alzheimer's Association or Kindred Hospice in Abilene.