“Can’t Never Could” was her mantra, a gentle retort she offered anytime she sensed an attitude of defeat or unbelief in anyone, namely in her two daughters.  It was a posture nestled deep in her heart – no wonder she endured as she did!  From where did her help come from?  Her help came from the Lord, the Creator of heaven and earth.

In the presence of family, Mary Ellen Caldwell, 84, of Houston, Texas passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 06, 2026.

She was born on August 19, 1941 in Los Angeles, California and spent her life as a devoted wife and mother, as well as daughter, sister, aunt, grandmother, friend, and daycare director.  She moved to Houston following her husband’s passing in 2013.  She was known for many things but, above all, for her resilience and the tender love she had for others.  She was (and still is) a faithful follower of Jesus Christ.

She is survived by her daughters, Stacy Tockerman (Rick McDole) and Tracy Dyson (George); her grandson, James Tockerman; her sister, Trish Moore (Jim); and a host of beloved nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her husband of 47 years, James “Jim” Caldwell; her mother, Mary Russell; and her brothers, Jimmy, Leeland, and John Kemp.

A celebration of life will be held at 10am on Thursday, May 21, 2026 at the Crowder Funeral Home in Webster, TX.  Public viewing begins at 9am with a reception to follow the ceremony.