Cynthia Caldwell, 98

April 24, 1928  –  May 7, 2026

Tupelo-Cynthia Mayer Nesmith Caldwell met her Creator from the Coen Green House at United Methodist Senior Services-Tupelo around 3 AM Thursday, May 7, 2025. Mrs. Caldwell, former 1st lady of Tupelo, was 98 years old. She was born in Sheffield, Colbert Co. Alabama on April 24, l928 to the late Gilbert Russell Mayer and Myldred Clarice Manning Mayer. Her life was rich and remarkable, having served as a housemother for many years at Ole Miss and the University of Alabama. A former owner of the Knit Shop in Tupelo, Ms. Caldwell was the mother of 5 children; Bill Nesmith (Maurita), Millie Nesmith, Lynn Nesmith ,Martha Nesmith Benjamin and K.C. Caldwell Grist (Joey) and all their families. An Auburn University undergraduate, she was also a major fan of the Ole Miss Rebels. A beautiful and delight soul whose smile was contagious, Cynthia was a Lighthouse to so many over her long, fruitful earthly pilgrimage. The work of her hands were gifts from God: knitting, needlepoint, English smocking and French handsewing. She mastered all these talents and made hundreds of exquisite items for friends and family over her lifetime. A virtuous Christian lady, Cynthia was a member of the Lee Acres Church of Christ. She redefined the term Southern Steel Magnolia in every way.

There will be no formal funeral service but the family will gather from 11 AM-1 PM on Wednesday, May 13, 2026 at Holland Funeral Directors-Tupelo for a time of fellowship and visitation. At 12:30, there will be a time for anyone who chooses to share personal reflections. Food will be provided in the Funeral Home Dining Hall. Private family burial/committal will be in the Mayer family plot at Oakwood Cemetery in Sheffield, Alabama, next to her mother.

Condolences may be posted on Cynthia’s memorial page at hollandfuneraldirectors.com (662 840 5000)

Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.

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