Geoffrey Fellows Caldwell

July 1, 2024

Obituary

Geoffrey Fellows Caldwell, 81, of Alexandria, Virginia, passed away peacefully surrounded by family at his home on July 1. Known throughout his life as affable, gregarious and not shy to deploy his sharp and ready wit, Geof was born on March 20, 1943, to Clinton and Alice Caldwell in Glen Ridge, New Jersey. The middle boy of three, he attended Millburn High School and received his bachelor’s degree in finance from the University of Virginia before earning his MBA at American University. In 1967, Geof married Brooke Somerville. Together they had two children: Laura and Geoffrey. His business career began in finance and banking with positions at American Security Bank and the National Cooperative Bank before eventually transitioning into marketing consulting roles for nonprofits like the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

The embodiment of a Renaissance man, Geof was throughout his life an avid pianist, oil painter, traveler, history and architecture enthusiast, sailor, tennis player, swimmer and passionate supporter of the arts. Geof’s love for the National Symphony Orchestra and all things Kennedy Center were well-known by his family and friends. His support—both financially and with hours of volunteering—for the Alexandria Seaport Foundation, ALIVE!, The Brady Center to Prevent Gun Violence and the Alexandria Equal Employment Opportunities Commission helped to improve the lives of adults and youth across the metropolitan area. Geof’s faith was important to him, and throughout his life he was committed to enjoying friendships and keeping up with his ever-growing extended family.

Toward the end of his life, Geof assumed leadership of the USS Rankin Association with purpose and great zeal, helping to bring together the community of the Attack Cargo Ship on which he served from 1965 – 1967. Geof is survived by Brooke, Laura, Geoffrey, four grandchildren and his younger brother Stephen. A memorial service will be held on August 16 at 11 a.m. at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Alexandria. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to cancerresearch.org.