Rosemary Davidson Caldwell, "Sis" to many of her oldest and dearest friends, passed away after a brief illness on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019 at Mobile Infirmary Hospital.
A native of Chickasaw Alabama, she was the daughter of George Gardner Davidson and Rose McKenzie Davidson; and sister to George "Bo" Davidson.
Rosemary attended Vigor High School where she was named Miss Vigor High in 1954. After graduating, Rosemary attended Auburn University where she was a member of Kappa Delta sorority.
At Auburn she met her late husband of 53 years, Captain Jacob (Jake) James Caldwell (DAL retired). Their lives were a whirlwind of adventures starting with Jake's service in the United States Air Force.
Jake was stationed at Hahn airbase in Germany, where they had ample opportunities to explore and travel throughout Europe. After leaving the service, Jake and Rosemary settled with their children in Atlanta, Georgia. Rosemary instilled a love of running, snow-skiing, adventure and a "seize the day" perspective to her children.
During the latter part of Jake's career with Delta Airlines, they chose to return to their home state of Alabama, living for many years on Ono Island and in Spanish Fort, Alabama. She joined the TimberCreek Ladies Golf Club and was a member until her death.
Rosemary was of a generation who believed in her Lord, her country, patriotism, self-reliance and using commonsense when traversing life. She lived life to the fullest, on her terms, and never complained even in her final days.
She fiercely loved her family, her friends and her little dog, Toby. She was a devoted mother, wife, grandmother, daughter, sister, mother-in-law and friend.
Her hands were never idle, and was a fantastic knitter who looked forward to experiencing the talents of her favorite knitting group and the friendships that came with it. Rosemary was a gourmet cook, an avid reader and loved to meet her special friends for weekly dining in local restaurants.
Her generosity to her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren was limitless; she put them before herself always.
There is no way to express the sadness and loss we feel but will rejoice in the stories to be told for many years to come. There is nothing that can replace her.
Rosemary was predeceased by her parents, George and Rose Davidson; brother, George "Bo" Davidson; and her loving husband, Jake Caldwell.
She is survived by her two children, Kathryn Rose Caldwell Seckar (Steve), George Alan Caldwell (Noel); her grandchildren, Claire Rose Chae (Pete), Mark Vasterling (Alex); and her great-grandchildren, Jacob Peter Chae, Ellison Rose Chae and Charlie Rose Vasterling.
In keeping with her wishes, Rosemary donated her earthly remains for medical education. Therefore, a memorial service and celebration of her life will be held at Chickasaw United Methodist Church on Thursday, Dec. 12, 2019 at 10 a.m.
The family would like to extend a very special thank you for the excellent care and kindness of the doctors and nursing staff at Mobile Infirmary and a special thank you to Dr. Martin Lester.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to one of Rosemary's favorite charities: Penelope House, L'Arche Mobile, Chickasaw United Methodist Church, or a charity of your choice.
