July 23, 2021
Doston Reed Caplinger age 94 passed away Thursday July 22, 2021 at NHC Healthcare of Smithville. He was born March 20, 1927 to his parents the late James Abraham Garfield and Lona Hill Caplinger. In addition to his parents he was preceded death by and infant son, James Reed Caplinger; brothers, Clarence, Charlie, Oble, Rayford, Monroe and Quentin Caplinger; sisters Ruth Sandlin, Elsie Caplinger, Ione Cantrell, and Geraldine Summers. Mr. Caplinger was a member of Dale Ridge Baptist Church, served in the United States Air Force, and worked for many years with the Forestry Department and with his brother as a Mechanic. He is survived by his wife of 72 years, Ruth McGuire Caplinger of Smithville; children, Randy (Karen) Caplinger, Darlene Caplinger, and Tony Caplinger all of Smithville; grandchildren, Shawn Caplinger, Cory Caplinger, Nicole (Chith “CT”) Tong; great-grandchildren, Pearce Tong and Paxton “Pax” Tong; special niece, Ms. Billie Woodside; several nieces and nephews also survive. Funeral service will be Sunday July 25, 2021 at 2:PM at DeKalb Funeral Chapel with Bro. Donnie Kelly and Bro. Gary Caplinger officiating and burial to follow in Whorton Springs Cemetery. Visitation will be Saturday 4:PM till 7:PM and Sunday 11:AM until the time of the service at 2:PM. Due to COVID-19 the funeral home lounge is closed and NO food or drinks are allowed in the funeral home. The family would like to say a special “Thank You” to Avalon Hospice and staff, Dr. Cripps, and special caregivers, Donna Robinson, Jimmie Kirby, Elaine Cowart, Louise Ferrell, Marylin Mashburn, Miranda Murphy, Deanna Kennedy. DeKalb Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements.