On February 22, 2024, 70-year-old Benjamin Russell Calloway of Moravian Falls, North Carolina, tragically passed away due to an accidental shooting. According to reports, Calloway was handling a 9mm handgun when it fell from a golf bag, discharging a bullet that struck a major artery and caused severe bleeding. Despite prompt response from the Moravian Falls Fire Department and Wilkes Emergency Medical Service, Calloway was pronounced dead at the scene.
Born on December 17, 1953, in Watauga County to James Blaine Calloway, Jr. and Kathleen Beshears Calloway, Benjamin was a dedicated member of Cub Creek Baptist Church, serving as a Deacon, Sunday School Teacher, and choir leader. He is survived by his wife, Freda Calloway; children, Emily and William Stokes, Marlee Calloway and Nathan Ham; two grandchildren, Ella and Lilly Stokes; siblings, Elaine and Terry West, Karen and Harold Bumgarner, and Mike Calloway; as well as in-laws Fred and Barbara Eldreth, and numerous nieces and nephews. Funeral services were held on February 26, 2024, at Cub Creek Baptist Church, followed by burial in Scenic Memorial Gardens.
The Wilkes County Sheriff's Office investigated the incident and determined that the shooting was accidental, resulting from the firearm discharging when it fell from the golf bag. No arrests were made, and there are no suspects involved in this case. The community mourns the loss of a respected and active member, remembering Benjamin for his commitment to his faith and family.
