Mr. Robert Callaway

Robert Calloway, the 9th child of William Henry Calloway and Maggie Lee Roberts, was born in Neshoba County Philadelphia, Mississippi on May 28, 1949. His brother, Vester Geddis Lee, and sister, Betty Calloway-Whitaker, preceded him in death. Robert accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized at Poplar Spring Church. He graduated from Carver High School in Neshoba County and attended electrical and mechanical trade school to specialize in mechanics. Robert valiantly served in the United States Army in 1970-1971 and was awarded many medals, including National Defense Service, Vietnam Service, Vietnam Campaign, Sharp Shooter M16, and Bronze Star. Robert married Earline Sommerville on July 23, 1973. Four children were born in this union: Tiffany Robin, Telese Lashell, William Robert, and Wendy Renee. He was a devoted family man. They were married 26 years. After returning home from his tour of duty, Robert worked in transit in New York. He came to Michigan and began working for General Motors for 40 years at various locations - Detroit Diesel, Power Train Romulus, and Flint. His expertise was noticed by his fellow workers and engineers and he participated in projects in Germany as the expert mechanic. He also owned and operated many businesses. Cal’s Auto & Electric Repair, operated in southwest Detroit and later in northwest Detroit. He also owned and served as mechanic for the Shell gas station in Oak Park for many years. Pamela McDonald Bentley found her soul mate in Robert while working on her mother’s car. Mamma knew best it seems, because she predicted they would become friends. Pam always said that Cal had jump started her heart and her car. Through many years, Cal and Pam, along with her children Christopher and Shauna, shared a joyous and challenging ride. Births, deaths, and illness were a part of their time together. Their grandson, Kyle, died September 10, 2011. Robert and Pamela were married on August 2, 2008. Her mother had given her blessing to their plans to marry, but died on the eve of their ceremony. Robert loved to spend time outdoors. He was always tearing down and rebuilding cars, trucks, motorcycles and anything else mechanical. “Mr. Fix-It” was one of many nicknames that fit him perfectly. No matter what you called him or how you spelled it, friendship was the bond. He enjoyed fishing, working on his boat “Miss Arianna,” and watching westerns, animal shows, and action movies. Everyone enjoyed hanging out with him, whether it was playing cards, watching the birds and squirrels playing in the yard, or cooking outside or in the kitchen. After a long battle with cancer, God granted Robert’s transition to peace on Easter Sunday morning, March 31st.

Mr. Robert Callaway

May 28, 1949 - March 31, 2013