August 10, 2021
Calvin “Eugene” Colwell, age 71, of Smithville, TN, won his long-fought battle with cancer on Monday August 9, 2021. Some knew Eugene by his life-long nickname “cowboy.” Eugene was born in DeKalb County, TN, on June 29, 1950, to his parents, Toy Brown and Lydia Mae Williams Colwell. Preceding Eugene in death were his parents; two daughters, Crystal and Catherine Colwell; former wife, Charlotte Colwell; brothers, Floyd, James, Dallas, John B, Johnny Ringo, and Lillard Colwell.
Eugene leaves behind one daughter, Jeania Cawthorn, and husband Jeff of Smithville; two sons, Stuart Colwell and wife Tiffany of Rock Island, Matthew Colwell and wife Tara of Smithville. Eugene also leaves behind nine grandchildren, Austin Poss, Alex Poss, Alison Poss, Megan Stewart, Leagh Cawthorn, Cortney Turner, Scotty Colwell, Nathan Colwell, Justin Colwell, Abby Vanwormer, Gabby Vanwormer and Layla Colwell; five great-grandchildren and his first wife, Louise Colwell Arnold. Eugene also leaves behind two brothers, Willard (Sally) Colwell of Smithville and Daniel Colwell of McMinnville, TN, and a sister, Martha (Rev. Edwin) Moore of Sparta; sister-in-law, Peggy Colwell; and several nieces and nephews.
Eugene was a retired carpenter and an award-winning horseshoe pitcher. Eugene loved to joke and make others smile and could often be found visiting friends at local clubs.
Per his wishes, Eugene will be cremated. A memorial service for family and friends will be 2 PM Thursday, August 12, 2021, at DeKalb Funeral Chapel with Bro. Jordan Atnip officiating. Visitation with the family will be on Thursday 10:AM until the time of the service at 2 PM In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate to a charity of your choice in Eugene’s memory or to the American Cancer Society.
The funeral home lounge is closed at this time and no food or drinks are allowed in the funeral home.
DeKalb Funeral Chapel is in charge of the arrangements.