of Little Rock, AR
June 27, 1947 - April 24, 2008
Judge Richard Boggs Calaway, of Little Rock, ended his valiant battle with cancer on April 24, 2008. He was born on June 27,1947, in Batesville, Arkansas, to Dr. Hickman and Mrs. Malissa Calaway. After graduating from Batesville High School, Richard attained his undergraduate degree from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville. He then obtained a Juris Doctorate degree from Duke University and an L.L.M. from Georgetown University. Richard spent the majority of his legal career serving as an Administrative Law Judge for the Arkansas Workers' Compensation Commission.
Richard had a quick wit and a laid back personality. As a result, he had many friends from all walks of life. He loved to travel, and he and his daughter, Malissa, enjoyed many adventures together as she grew up, particularly to Costa Rica. Richard valued education above all things. Proudly raising his daughter on his own, he was fortunately able to fight his battle with cancer long enough to see his daughter begin her college experience.
Richard was a true renaissance man. He loved traveling, art, literature, and the Razorbacks, all with equal enthusiasm. He loved listening to the "Oldies," but it was his passion for dancing that brought him to the great love of his life, Lena. Any place music played, it was not unusual to see he and Lena gliding about, beautifully together. Their lovely wedding, only one year ago, was certainly no exception. It was obvious they were meant to be "partners," in all respects.
Richard was a great man of dignity. He displayed his dignity even throughout the darkest days of his illness, never complaining or seeking sympathy from anyone; he always maintained a positive attitude about his health. He stood strong as a great example of courage, never failing to be there for his friends in their times of need. His loyalty and honor were unmatched.
Richard was full of life. He was fun-loving, and brought joy to all who knew him. He had a unique way of making those around him feel special. His ability to maintain his sharp sense of humor and quick wit was truly an inspiration to all who knew and loved him, and is probably the attribute that will be most remembered.
Richard is survived by his wife of one year, Margarita Eloina Zavalza Calaway, "Lena;" of Little Rock; his daughter, Ana Malissa Calaway, of Little Rock; two sisters, Carol Calaway Wilson, and husband, Bill Wilson, and Cathy Calaway Fudge, all of Memphis; one brother, William "Bill" Hickman Calaway and wife, Florence Wolf Calaway of Olive Branch, Mississippi; nephews Jim Wilson of Belton, Texas, Richard Fudge and Robert Fudge; nieces Rebecca Fudge and Florence Mullins, all of Memphis, and a host of friends, colleagues, and co-workers, who were all blessed and honored to have known him. He will be truly missed by us all.
He is preceded in death by his parents, William Hickman Calaway, "Dr. Hick," and Malissa Cannafax Calaway, and his nephew, Quincy Hickman Calaway.
Visitation will be Monday, April 28, from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. at Roller-Chenal Funeral Home, 13801 Chenal Parkway, (501)224-8300. Services will be held at the funeral home's chapel at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, April 29. Graveside services will be at 2:00 p.m, Tuesday, at Bethesda, Arkansas.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, 901 North University Avenue, Little Rock, Arkansas, 72203 or the National Alliance on Mental Illness, 712 W. 3rd. St., Suite 200, Little Rock, AR 72201.
Sign Guestbook
36 Condolence(s)
Chadwick Austin
Thursday, December 5, 2024
Richard and I were good friends for a while. We used to work out at War Memorial fitness center together. Richard, Shelley Muscovalley (my mom), and Melissa Calaway used to hang out in Little rock together often before and after Judge Calaway was diagnosed with cancer. My mom Shelley recently passed of cancer as well. Richard will be missed and his legacy will live on in the lives of others in Little Rock. he will be missed by many friends. :)
Carolyn
Thursday, March 31, 2011
I loved him, and I wish I would have told him how much he meant to me.
Cindy
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Dear Calaway Family,
I am just hearing of Richard's passing. I met him in the 80's while living in Little Rock. I remember his laugh, I remember how he laughed. You couldn't help but to laugh with him. And his dedication to Melissa. God Bless you all. Rest in Peace my friend.
Marcia Lyon
Thursday, April 30, 2009
I have only fond memories of Richard, and also of Melissa when she was little. He was a close college friend, one worth keeping in touch with through the years. The truest statement about Richard was about his quick wit, and I will add charm. What a smart, loving individual I had the opportunity to know.
Janie Weaver Prichard
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Carol Cathy and family, My prayers are with you all. Love , Janie
Jennie Stewart
Thursday, May 1, 2008
Dearest Lena, How sad I am you lost your dearest love of your life. The short time of meeting and joining Richard (pronounced Ree-chard) was one of grace and divine intervention. He could not have chosen for himself a more perfect mate and like you said of "like minds". You allowed him to show you how much he loved you and when it was time he allowed you to show him how much you loved him. That is TRUST indeed. You can go forward with no regrets, only memories of true love, companionship, and service to your loved one, Richard. I will always remember the example set by the two of you for the rest of my life. I love you. Jennie
Tim Ellison
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
I pray that God will comfort all of my cousins and friends of Richard. My mother was Iris Calaway Allender, Richard's first cousin.
Sherri
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Dearest Calaway Family, I am sorry to hear about Richard 's passing. Richard had the warmest smile, a positive attitude and an easy going personality. We will truly miss him. Know that you are in our prayers.
Bobbie Garlin Low
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
I was saddened to hear about Richard's death. He and I were friends when we were students at Batesville High School. I will always remember his ready smile, quick wit, and easy going manner. Even at such a young age, he was such a thoughtful listener. He might disagree but always politely. These attributes obviously were carried over into his successful career and personal life. I ran into him some years ago here in Batesville and had a wonderful visit . He spoke with such love and devotion for his daughter.
John & Jerri Skaggs
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
I served on the Board of Directors of NAMI Arkansas with Richard. I am glad that I had to opportunity to know him & work with him. I appreciate his dedication and help to the organization. Our thoughts and prayers are extended to Richard's family. He was truly a man of intregriety. John & Jerri Skaggs
Rosalia Monroe
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
I met Richard in 1993 in a dance studio where we were taking dancing lessons. The thing that I admired the most about him was his love and dedication to his daughter Malissa, who I had the chance to baby sit sometimes. He was a loving father and a great friend. I'll remember him forever.
Terry Rasco
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
So sorry to read about Richard's passing. We met when we were children in Batesville when I was up there visiting my grandmother on Boswell Street. It was always a pleasure to run into Richard in later life, and "catch up" with each other. His obituary says it all: just a great guy; always pleasant and happy. He will be missed.
Myra Means
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
I met Richard in the early 80's and didn't see him again until I ran into him at the Bop Club 3 yrs. ago. He had not changed. Sweet with a great sense of humor. We discussed his health and his concern and love for his daughter. Later, he met and fell in love with Lena. I saw them together many times and knew Richard had found his soulmate, the one who would walk with him through the rest of his life. I was, and am, so happy for him. Richard's memory will remain. My prayers are with all of you.
Andy Caldwell
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Marc, Danielle and Stephan House
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Malissa we were truly saddened to hear that your dad has passed. You've been in our thoughts and prayers. I know how much you loved your dad and he was so fortunate to have such a devoted daughter.
Dana Patterson-Sims
Monday, April 28, 2008
Richard was my friend. I could count on his character to bring a frank opinion, his excellent legal mind to provice good advice and, best of all, his hilarious sense of humor to render wonderful stories. Our friendship was based on honesty and compassion, a glass of wine and some dance steps. I miss him and send all blessings to his wife, his family and his many friends.
John, Pamela & Katherine Baxter
Monday, April 28, 2008
Peace.
Marlies Mitchell
Monday, April 28, 2008
I will miss his laugh which weaved seemlessly with whatever story he was telling and he was one of the best story tellers! When I think of him, it is his compassion that most defines him for me. My deepest sympathy to you.
Doris & Mark Krain
Monday, April 28, 2008
We are so sorry. Words do not make it easier, but know your friends care and will be there for you.
Dana Bone Teichart
Monday, April 28, 2008
Dear Cathy, Carol, and family: I was saddened to hear of Richard's death, I remember his easy way and how everybody liked being around him. Richard was definitely one of my favorite friends of my brother, Mike's, growing up in Batesville. We are all lucky that he touched our lives. Someone so special can never be forgotten. I am sharing in your sorrow with love and friendship. Dana Bone Teichart
Jim&Virginia Stanton
Monday, April 28, 2008
We always admired Richard's attitude at the Little Rock dances as we knew his health situation. He was always the same no matter what. Thank you letting us be a part of His life and Yours.
Shela Talley
Monday, April 28, 2008
He was a great man and I enjoyed working with him over the years. He will be missed. Shela Talley
Jim Stanley, Jr.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Dear Calaway family, As an attorney representing workers comp claimants, I appeared before Richard Calaway on countless times over the past two decades. He was fair, courteous, understanding and attentive to his duties as a Judge - and I stress THIS because it was obvious he was occasionally physically uncomfortable due of his illness. He was a serious minded, brave and quality man. Away from the hearing room, Richard was my friend; he was 'a good man' - and at the end of all of our lives, what is a better way of being remembered than the very 'essence of goodness' - such was Richard. Surely angels came on April 24th to guide him to Heaven, where his dear soul was welcomed to eternity within the Lord's embrace. My sympathies and my prayers are extended to all; Richard will be missed...
Charley Jackson
Sunday, April 27, 2008
I am truly sorry for the loss of Richard to the whole family. May the Lord comfort you in this difficult time.
Marie Junkin Jones
Sunday, April 27, 2008
We are very sadden by Richard's death. His family and my family were freinds before Richard or I were even born. I have great childhood stories of he and Carol and Bill and Cathy. Thanks for the memories. marie
Louis, Kathy, Tyler & Katie Brolo
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Malissa, When words don't seem sufficient enough to comfort remember: "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Psalm 46:1" Praying you feel the comfort of God's loving arms wrapped around you and rely on the wonderful memories made with an earthly father that could not have loved you more.
Tommy and Emily Roberts
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Dearest Lena I cannot adequately express how sorrowful I feel about the loss of Richard.
Pam St. Clair
Saturday, April 26, 2008
I will always cherish the memory of Judge Calaway. He was such a gentleman in every way, and he truly was interested in everyone. I loved his dry wit. I admired his unique ability to grasp the meaning in a complicated matter and communicate it where everyone could understand. As his court reporter, I watched him display never-wavering bravery in the face of cancer. Even during the worst of his cancer treatment, with no sleep, an upset stomach, and various other side effects, he never missed a hearing. He was a very good friend and I will miss him.
Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Roberts
Saturday, April 26, 2008
What a wonderful friend you were to our sister. Malissa is in our prayers and on the prayer list at our church. I know you will not be forgotten.
Mr. and Mrs. Troy Braswell
Saturday, April 26, 2008
We'll keep Malissa in our prayers.
Jay Muscovalley
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Our family will miss you. May you rest in heavenly peace.
Neal Muscovalley
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with Malissa and your family.
Joshua Muscovalley
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Our family misses you already. Our thoughts are with Malissa and your family.
Amy Boyle
Saturday, April 26, 2008
I'll never forget all the fun we had with Richard and Malissa in the equestrian genre... . he was amazing in his patience "gentling" and taming a scared, wild little pony named Taylor. I'll miss you. Malissa, you're in my prayers.
Shelley Muscovalley
Saturday, April 26, 2008
A true and loyal friend over many years; dedicated and loving father to his only child, Malissa; a champion supporter of those who suffer as a member of the Board of Directors of the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill - Arkansas; we love you and miss you.
Tom Mickel
Friday, April 25, 2008
A true gentleman, able lawyer and all around good person has left us. Peace, Richard. We'll miss you.