Molly Caldwell Cline

Molly Caldwell Cline, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 28, 2025, in Lincoln, Nebraska, at the age of 81. Known for her lively spirit, passion for the arts, and deep devotion to her community, Molly leaves behind a legacy of generosity, joy, and cultural enrichment.

Born on December 4, 1943, in Abilene, Texas, to Henry Guy Caldwell and Jeannette Tippit Caldwell, Molly grew up surrounded by music and family traditions. She spent her earliest years on the family ranch along the Clear Fork of the Brazos before returning to Abilene at age four. Her parents’ love for the Abilene Philharmonic sparked Molly’s lifelong devotion to classical music. Though she was not a musician herself, she became one of its most faithful champions.

Molly attended the Hockaday School in Dallas, but remained close to her Abilene High School Class of 1961, cherishing those bonds throughout her life. She graduated from Southern Methodist University in 1965, where she nurtured her intellectual curiosity and passion for culture. While registering for summer school in Hawaii, she met William Geoffrey Cline and embarked on a new adventure. They married at First Baptist Church in Abilene on December 18, 1965, and later welcomed two children, Geoffrey and Jeannette, who became the joy of her life.

Following her divorce, Molly spent several years in Dallas before returning to Abilene in 1987. She rejoined First Baptist Church where she found a spiritual home and lasting fellowship in the Freedom Sunday School Class taught by Ron Smith. She often invited her children to join her in this special community.

Molly poured her energy into the Abilene Philharmonic Guild for more than 30 years, where her creativity, attention to detail, and tireless efforts helped sustain and grow the orchestra. Whether arranging seating with her signature precision or welcoming musicians into her home after concerts, she made everyone feel valued and included. She believed deeply in the power of music to inspire children, and her work helped ensure that future generations would share in that gift. Her leadership was recognized with the Golden Charm Award in 2011, and in 2019 she was honored as the Grande Dame of the Philharmonic’s Gold Medallion Ball, sharing the stage with her late brother Lee—a meaningful celebration of their family’s legacy of service.

Adventurous and curious by nature, Molly traveled widely, creating treasured memories with her children and pursuing journeys of her own. Her travels took her to Egypt, Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, China, Israel, the Red Sea, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Grand Cayman, the Galapagos Islands and beyond. A passionate scuba diver, she delighted in underwater photography, capturing images of vibrant marine life that reflected her appreciation for beauty in all forms.

Fun-loving and quick-witted, Molly had a lively presence that drew people to her. She was determined and no-nonsense when needed, yet unfailingly generous, gracious, and thoughtful. She loved hosting gatherings, making her home a place where friends, family, and newcomers alike felt welcome. Her stubborn streak made her dependable; her humor made her delightful; and her character made her unforgettable.

Molly is survived by her children, Geoffrey Lee Cline and his wife, Kristen, of Lincoln, Nebraska, and Jeannette Cline Black and her husband, Josh, of Abilene; her four beloved grandchildren, Eliza, Henry, Charlotte, and Spencer; and numerous nephews, nieces, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brothers, Lee Caldwell and Clifton Caldwell.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at First Baptist Church, 1333 North 3rd Street, Abilene. Family will welcome friends at a visitation on Friday, October 10, 2025, from 6:00–8:00 p.m., at Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home, 5701 Highway 277 South, in Abilene.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites memorial contributions to the Abilene Philharmonic Guild, the First Baptist Church Foundation Abilene, the Judge and Mrs. C.M. Caldwell Endowed Scholarship at Hardin-Simmons University, or to a charity of your choice. These gifts will continue Molly’s legacy of fostering community, education, and the arts.