Colonel Allen Clifford Caldwell, a distinguished Army veteran and educator, passed away on Sunday, April 5, 2026 at his home.

Born in Tulare, CA on March 31, 1930, and raised in Portersville, CA, Allen made Crisfield his home 36 years ago. He was a beloved son of the late George Allen Caldwell and Dorothy Doyle Caldwell Tolson.

He pursued higher education with commitment, attending San Francisco University where he earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees. Furthering his academic pursuits, he achieved Doctor of Education (ABD) status at Utah State University.

Allen's military career was marked by honor and achievement. As a graduate of the Army Officer Candidate School, he served bravely during the Korean Conflict. During his tour of duty, he sustained a hearing disability and was on patrol during the loss of Pork Chop hill at the 38th Parallel. Over the course of his service, he rose through the ranks from private to full colonel at retirement, earning 11 military occupational specialties in artillery, signal, and intelligence. Notably, he served two tours of duty at West Point Military Academy as a liaison officer.

Allen dedicated himself to education, teaching electricity and coaching football in Napa, California from 1960 to 1963, and later teaching electronics in Pittsburg, California.

Beyond his professional and military accomplishments, he had a passion for dancing and traveling the world. Alongside his wife Patsy, he enjoyed exploring the country in their motor home. His life was one of service, education, and family devotion, and he will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

He is survived by his step-children: Melinda Oakley (Mitch) of Lynn Haven, Florida, Teresa Landon (Tracy) of Princess Anne, and Ray Landon (Carol) of Crisfield; his "favorite" sister, Wilta Mae Clark of Folsom, CA. He also leaves behind cherished granddaughters Melissa Hylton (Joe) and Melanie Thomas; great-grandchildren Jayden, Gracie, and Russell; as well as numerous nieces and nephews in California. And Melissa McCullough Cawthorne, the daughter of his late former wife, Barbara McCullough..

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 39 years, Patsy Landon Caldwell; and his brothers, Leon and Donley Caldwell.

A graveside memorial services with military honors will be held on Friday, April 10, 2026 at Sunnyridge Memorial Park at 11 AM. Pastor Jack “Tad” Maroon will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be sent to First Baptist Church, 1 S. Somerset Ave., Crisfield, MD 21817 or to Coastal Hospice at www.coastalhospice.org/donate.

The family would like to thank Home Instead and Coastal Hospice. Personal thanks to Maurice and Starr White, Michael Horsey, and Brenda Thomas.