Curtis "BigIke" Michael Caldwell

Curtis Michael Caldwell was born on October 23, 1970, in Jackson, Mississippi. He transitioned to eternity with his Lord on October 8, 2019, in Dallas, Texas. 

Curtis attended Canton High School where he was a stellar athlete. Upon graduation in 1989, he enlisted in the United States Army. He was stationed in various places, including Panama and Killeen, Texas. Curtis proudly served his country until being honorably discharged. In 1993, he moved to Dallas. He worked most of his career in technology - at Texas Instruments for some time and later at ST Micro Electronics. He worked until his health began to decline. 

He had a great passion for sports and young people. With great determination to make a positive impact in the world, he founded the Dream Team AAU/Select Basketball Organization in 1999. Hundreds of young people were privileged to play under his coaching and grow under his leadership. He found ultimate delight in serving as the director and coach in this league. He loved the kids and the kids loved him. 

As a young child, Curtis accepted Christ as his Savior and always served in the Church. At the time of his transition, Curtis was a member of New Mount Zion Baptist Church where he joined under the leadership of Dr. R.E. Price, Sr. and continued his growth under the leadership of Dr. T.L. Brown. With his strong tenor voice, he led songs in the Sanctuary Choir.

Affectionately regarded as "BigIke", Curtis was a man of considerable character. He was a Mason and served as Worshipful Master of Rising Star Lodge #650. Among many hobbies, he enjoyed fishing, dancing, and singing. He especially enjoyed cooking, as he thought he was the Top Chef. He would always watch cooking shows hoping to compete on Top Chef. He delighted in baking sweet potato pies and cooking ribs for the nurses at the hospital at which he received treatment. A generous and inspiring motivator, Curtis was one with an undeniable humor and strength who truly loved people, especially his family. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. 

Curtis was preceded in death by his grandparents. Those left to cherish precious memories include his wife, Mattie Caldwell; son, Jacques Caldwell (Brittany Wilson); daughter, Kiara Caldwell; son, JeMarcus Caldwell; grandson, Jasen Caldwell; mother, Bernice Caldwell; father, Walter Caldwell, Sr. (Mamie); grandmother, Leatha Boyd; brothers: Cornelious Caldwell, Darria Maning (Teresa), Eric Caldwell (Tiffany), Walter Caldwell, Jr. (Timetha), and Jason Thompson (Erika); godchildren: Misha Chapman, LaDeja Thompson, and Kendrick Alford; the Dream Team family; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, Mason brothers, and dear friends. 

Mississippi services under the care of:

Family Memorial Funeral Services

326 West North Street

Canton, Mississippi 39046

601-589-1507

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