Shanista Yvonne Ling Caldwell

November 21, 1986 - September 05, 2026

Shanista Yvonne Ling Caldwell, 39, of Salem, entered into rest on Saturday, September 5, 2026.

She was born on November 21, 1986. She graduated from Floyd County High School in 2005. Shanista was a bright light in the lives of everyone she met. Known for her easy smile, playful spirit, and warm sense of humor, Shanista made friends everywhere she went. She believed that laughter was the best response to life's challenges, teaching us all to look for the light in every situation and never miss an opportunity to smile.

Shanista will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her parents, Tony and Liz Ling; sister, Nichole Hodges; son and best blessing of her life, Drake Hutton; partner of 13 years, Jay Jackson; and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

A gathering to honor and celebrate Shanista's life will be held on September 11, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Wilson Cemetery in Check, VA, with Pastor Dan Whitlock officiating. In memory of Shanista, do something today that makes someone else laugh.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Gardner Funeral Home to help with funeral expenses.

I'm so very sorry for your loss Liz and Tony.Thoughts and prayers for you all

I am deeply saddened by the loss of Shanista. She was a sweetheart and I enjoyed the time we were a family and after. I will absolutely miss running in to her from time to time and catching up. Love you honey! Fly high baby girl!

So sorry to hear of the passing of your loved one. Sending my deepest condolences and prayers for the coming days ahead. May God be with you at this difficult time.

I love you cuz.

Tony and Liz, I am so very sorry to hear about your sweet daughter's passing. She was definitely a light in the world to the people that knew her. I remember holding her the first time I saw her, and she was so tiny. Later on in life, she was one of Zachary's favorite people. Remember the time we had a birthday party for him, and rather than play in all the neat stuff that we had fixed up, they were playing in a mud puddle and having the best time of their life. My heart goes out to you both. Please let Zachary and I know if there's anything we can do or if you just need someone to sit with you quietly. We love you both

Sending my condolences. We had went to high-school together.

I'm so sorry for y'all's loss. Shanista was so sweet and funny!

Liz and family, I’m so deeply sorry. I wish there were words I could offer that would ease your pain but unfortunately there truthfully are none.but I can send you my thoughts, much love and many prayers! Love, Angee, Paul & Family