James Caldwell Jr.

James Leon "Jim" Caldwell, Jr., age 90, passed away peacefully on January 4th, 2026, in Birmingham, Alabama. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Jim lived a life marked by service, craftsmanship, and quiet strength.

Born on September 30, 1935, in Jackson, Mississippi, Jim grew up with a deep appreciation for learning and hard work. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from Mississippi State University through an ROTC scholarship, a path that led him into military service as a communications officer in the United States Air Force. Stationed in Matagorda, Texas, Jim served his country with dedication and technical expertise.

Following his military service, Jim embarked on a distinguished career in communications technology. He worked as an electrical engineer for GE before continuing his professional journey at AT&T and later BellSouth. Throughout his career, he contributed to the advancement of communications infrastructure during a pivotal era of technological growth. Even after retirement, Jim remained committed to education and mentorship—he taught electromagnetism to engineering students at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) and developed technical training courses for the phone company.

Jim was also a man of many passions. A master woodworker known for his precision and artistry, he found joy in creating with his hands. His love of HAM radio connected him to voices around the world long before the internet made such connections commonplace. An avid bicyclist and enthusiastic world traveler, Jim embraced adventure and discovery throughout his life.

Faith played a central role in Jim’s life. As a member of Canterbury Methodist Church in Birmingham, he was active in the Carpenter’s Hands ministry—offering his time and skills to help others through building projects and community outreach.

Jim’s personal qualities were as enduring as his accomplishments: kindness that welcomed all who met him; humility that grounded even his greatest achievements; patience that comforted those around him; and a loving spirit that defined every relationship he held dear.

He is survived by his beloved wife Lois; sons Brian and partner Margaret, and Bruce and wife Mary; sister Sally Harwell; stepchildren Kevin and wife Maria, Leigh Ann and husband Tommy, and Chris and wife Lisa; grandchildren Sean, Meghan, Shannon, and Kevin; step-grandchildren Joseph, Cole, Eric, Miller, Ann, John, Hamp, Anna Rose, and Christopher; and great-grandchildren James, Lenora, Talulah, Mollie, and Louise. Jim was preceded in death by his first wife Linda.

A memorial service celebrating Jim’s life will be held at Canterbury United Methodist Church in Birmingham on January 17th, 2026 at 11:00am, followed immediately by a reception lunch. Memorial donations can be made to The Parkinson’s Foundation (www.parkinson.org) or Canterbury United Methodist Church Outreach.

May the memory of James Leon "Jim" Caldwell Jr. bring comfort to all who knew him and continue to inspire lives rooted in compassionate love and quiet strength.