Earnest Leroy Caldwell, affectionately known as "Bubba," passed away on May 9, 2026, at the Charles Owen VA Medical Center in Asheville. Born on December 8, 1952, in Morganton, North Carolina, Earnest lived a life marked by dedication, warmth, and community spirit.

Educated through the Burke County School System, Earnest furthered his studies by obtaining an Associate's degree, showcasing his commitment to personal growth. Following his education, he proudly served in the United States Army, receiving an honorable discharge in 1974. His years of service stand as a testament to his steadfast character and devotion to his country.

Professionally, Earnest worked for many years as a truck driver, a career in which he earned respect and admiration for his reliability and work ethic. Beyond his professional life, he was widely cherished as the beloved DJ at the Sundown Club for many years, where his unique "Bubbaisms" and infectious personality brought joy to countless patrons.

Earnest had a passion for sports; he was an avid fan of football and NASCAR and enjoyed playing on the PCA Baseball team, embracing active engagement in his community and hobbies.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Lisa Rutherford Caldwell, with whom he shared his home; daughters Mikki Oraene (Fred) of Oklahoma and Myia Caldwell of Nashville, Tennessee; his sisters Jackie Scott, Robin Caldwell, and Denise Dula; his brother Marvin Caldwell; grandson Micah Oraene; mother-in-law Rosa Rutherford; aunt Vera Corpening; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends who cherished him deeply.

Earnest was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest Caldwell and Laura Caldwell Hamilton; grandparents Phifer and Ivory Corpening and Irene Moore; uncle Command Sgt. Major Thomas Andrew Corpening Sr.; nieces Jamie Marie McKesson and Daija Rutherford; and cousin Thomas Andrew Corpening Jr.

Earnest Leroy Caldwell’s legacy is one of dedication, warmth, and community spirit, leaving behind memories treasured by all who knew him. He will be profoundly missed and forever remembered.

A receiving of friends will be held on May 15, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM in the Corpening Memorial Chapel of McCain Funeral Home & Cremations, LLC. This will be followed by a memorial service at the same location at 12:30 PM, with Pastor Douglas Cuthbertson presiding and Rev. Jonathan Ford serving as eulogist; military honors will be rendered by the NC Honor Guard.

The service will be livestreamed on the McCain Funeral Home Facebook Page & YouTube Channel. The links are found below:

https://www.facebook.com/mccainfuneralhome

https://www.youtube.com/@mccainfuneralhomecremation3478