Auerila "Tootsie" Mccaleb

Auerila Gwendolyn "Tootsie" McCaleb, a beloved mother, sister, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully at her residence in Cookeville, TN on November 25, 2023. Born on May 15, 1945, in the same city she would later call home, Tootsie's life was characterized by her loving, thoughtful, and friendly nature.

Tootsie was a proud 1963 graduate of Algood High School. She then embarked on a successful banking career that spanned over 30 years, culminating in her retirement from Putnam 1st Mercantile. Her professional life was marked by an unwavering commitment to service and a friendly demeanor that endeared her to colleagues and clients alike. Tootsie and her late husband, Jimmy McCaleb, were also long-time associates with Dyer Chapel of Hooper Huddleston Horner Funeral Home, further testament to their dedication to their community.

Tootsie's faith was an integral part of her life. She was a member of Colonial View Baptist Church. Her faith was a source of strength and comfort to her, and she served as a beacon of light to those around her through her steadfast devotion and unwavering belief.

Tootsie's family was her pride and joy. She is survived by her sons, Mike (Mim) McCaleb of Rangoria, New Zealand, Jeff McCaleb of Cookeville, and Jason (Deonna) McCaleb of Collinsville, OK. She also leaves behind her brother, Alton Freeman of Cookeville. Tootsie was a cherished grandmother to Kyran, Breonna, Kaden, Bailey, Brooke, Eleanor, and Kasey, and a doting great-grandmother to Rowan, River, and Remy. She was preceded in death by her parents, William Howard and Gusta Lee Phy Freeman, and her husband of 56 years, Jimmy McCaleb, who passed away on June 19, 2023.

Tootsie will be remembered for her warm smile, her generous spirit, and her unwavering love for her family. Her legacy will live on in the memories of those who knew and loved her, and she will be deeply missed.

Funeral services honoring Tootsie will be at 1 p.m. Saturday December 2 at Colonial View Baptist Church. Bro. Chuck Overton and Bro. Ken Haney will officiate. Interment will follow at the West Cemetery. Her family will receive friends Saturday from 10 a.m. until service time.

For those wishing to honor Tootsie's memory, her family suggests contributions to West Cemetery, c/o Sharon Howard, 4449 Old Bridge Rd., Cookeville, TN 38506.

Dyer Chapel of Hooper Huddleston and Horner Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. (931)526-7158 Share condolences and memories at www.dyerfh.com.