William Ashford Caldwell III (Trey)

William Ashford Caldwell III (Trey) 12/05/1955 - 03/21/2025

Trey was a big man, in every sense of that word. He filled up any room he entered with his big smile, his big voice, and his big laugh. And yes, his outlandishly big feet, typically without shoes. He made a big impression on everyone he met, one not easily forgotten.

Biggest of all was his heart, possessing a generosity of spirit not often seen. A kindness extended to everyone equally and without hesitation. He was gregarious, with a sharp wit and dark sense of humor. 

He was a collector of hobbies. He didn’t do anything in a small way if it captured his imagination. His interests were varied, expansive, and sometimes random, running the gamut from history, evolution, guitars, and geology to mushrooms and plants. He prized knowledge and the collection of facts, big and small, from subjects that were wide-ranging and often entertaining. 

He lived his life with integrity, guided by a strong and ever-present moral compass, always taking the high road, doing the right thing, and giving people and the world the benefit of the doubt. He possessed a stubborn optimism that couldn’t be shaken and was contagious. His integrity was evidenced by how he approached his work as a controls technician at Baptist Hospital for over 30 years and by his fierce loyalty to his friends and family. And how well he treated those who had nothing to offer him in return.

For those of us who knew and loved him best, the world is smaller and less vibrant in his absence. He leaves a big space, empty.

He is survived by his wife and loving partner in life, Diana Caldwell; Daughter, Jennifer Vaughan and Husband Andy Vaughan; Son, William (Josh) Caldwell IV; daughter, Dana caldwell and husband Marshall Casey; sisters Nollie Morris, Emily Powell, Mary Caldwell, and Janice Carnes; brother Stephen Caldwell; nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and acquaintances too numerous to list.

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