John R MacCalla Jr.

Rick was born on November 14, 1948, and graduated from Winter Haven High School in 1966. He went on to attend Polk Community College, earning his associate degree, and later continued his studies at Belhaven College in Jackson, Mississippi.

Rick proudly served his country in the United States Navy aboard the USS Saratoga during the Vietnam War. Following his service, he dedicated 30 years to the State of Florida’s Department of Transportation before continuing his career with DRMP, a civil engineering firm based in Orlando, Florida.

An active and valued member of his community, Rick served as President of the Cypress Woods Homeowners Association and contributed to various committees within the neighborhood. His experience and dedication made him a trusted resource for community projects and improvements.

Rick was a man of many interests who found great joy in fishing, gardening, hunting, boating, traveling, and most of all, spending time with his family. His kindness, willingness to help others, and deep love for those around him will be remembered by all who knew him.

He was a member of the Baptist faith and lived his life guided by his strong values and devotion to family.

Rick is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Paula Day MacCalla of Winter Haven, FL; his son, John Raymond MacCalla of Knoxville, TN; his sister, Kathryn Juhnke of McPherson, KS; his grandson, James MacCalla of Box Springs, GA; his nieces Kristina Morgan of Abilene KS, Amanda Shaffer of Salina, KS, and Mara Morgan of McPherson, KS

He was preceded in death by his father, John Richard MacCalla, Sr., and his mother, Marabelle Munroe MacCalla Coker.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation in Rick’s memory.

Rick’s primary love was for his family and for fishing — a simple joy that perfectly reflected his spirit: patient, peaceful, and full of life.

A memorial service for Rick will be held on Saturday, November 8, 2025 at 11:00 at Ott-Laughlin Funeral Home, 2198 K-Ville Ave, Auburndale, Florida 33823. He will be laid to rest at Glen Abbey Memorial Gardens.