Betty Joann Caldwell, age 85, passed away peacefully on October 17, 2026, following a lengthy illness. Betty was born on January 15, 1941, and was a native of Jacksonville, Florida. She was the daughter of James Cuyler Kirkland and Joannah Stalvey Evans.
Throughout her life, Betty worked as a licensed cosmetologist and at one time owned her own beauty salon. Her most cherished job title was grandmother to not only her own grandchildren, but anyone who needed a surrogate.
#MOMOTHOUGH
Betty Jo was known for her kind and generous spirit. She loved her family, friends, and the Lord unconditionally. She will be deeply missed by her sons, daughter-in-love, grandchildren, siblings, and friends.
Betty Jo was preceded in death by her parents, James C. Kirkland and Joannah Stalvey Evans; her husband, Robert W. Caldwell, Sr.; her brother, Walter Kirkland; her sister, Glynda Baskin; her daughter, Torri Rutkowski; her granddaughter, Brittany Alexis Caldwell; and her great-granddaughter, Ryatt Everleigh Caldwell.
She is survived by her sons, Terry Caldwell and Robert W. Caldwell, Jr. (Cami); her grandchildren, Jordan Trentacosta (James), Colton Rutkowski (Christina), and Robert W. “Trey” Caldwell, III; her three great-grandchildren, Harlow, Freya, and Athena; her sister, Sandra Mullis (Gene); and her brother, James Kirkland (Bernice).
A visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Corey-Kerlin Funeral Home, 940 Cesery Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32211. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, October 29, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Arlington Park Cemetery.
