Dwight "Tony" J. Caudle

Waynesville, Dwight J. Caudle, 97, passed away in the early hours of Friday, March 17, 2023 at the Elizabeth House surrounded by his loving family.

A native of Yadkin County, he was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Caudle and Myrtle Steelman Caudle; his first wife, Cherry Caudle, who died in 2006; dear son, Tommy Caudle, who died in 1991; and Reverend Diane Messer Bailes who died in 2009.

A resident of Haywood County for 50 years, he served as a Sergeant in the North Carolina Highway Patrol for 38 years.  Tony served his country in the US Navy during World War II.  This proud member of First Baptist Church of Waynesville served in multiple capacities throughout his active membership.  He enjoyed being involved in community organizations for decades until his health prevented his participation.  He was a longstanding officer in the Rotary Club along with being a member of Masonic Lodge 259 and 168 Order of Eastern Star.  Inspired by his actions, the Waynesville Rotary Club gives an annual "Tony Award" in his honor to someone who exemplifies service above self.  Tony and Norma were volunteers for Haywood Christian Ministry and the Salvation Army.

Tony was a salt-of-the earth person who was generous with his time and money to help anyone in need.  A very special person in his life was Dr. Jaime Fanor Acosta Caballero, who Tony mentored to achieve his goal of entering medical school and becoming a pediatric surgeon in Colombia, South America.

Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 16 years, Norma Messer Caudle; two sons, Jeffrey Messer (Janice) and James "Jim" Calvin Messer, Jr. (Deborah); son-in-law, David Bailes (Lisa); six grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, March 20, 2023 in the Waynesville chapel of Wells Funeral Home with Reverend Dr. Robert Prince III and Reverend David Bailes officiating.  The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. on Monday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Haywood Christian Ministries, Baptist Children’s Homes, Salvation Army, or any charity of your choosing.

The care of Mr. Caudle has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville.