Benjamin Russell Calloway, 70, died on February 22, 2024, in Moravian Falls, North Carolina, after a 9mm handgun discharged when it fell from a golf bag and struck a major artery. Emergency responders from the Moravian Falls Fire Department and Wilkes Emergency Medical Service arrived quickly, but Calloway was pronounced dead at the scene. The Wilkes County Sheriff’s Office investigated and determined the shooting was accidental; no arrests were made.

Born December 17, 1953, in Watauga County, Calloway was active at 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; several siblings; and extended family. Funeral services were held February 26, 2024, with burial in Scenic Memorial Gardens.

If anyone knew Benjamin or has information about the circumstances that morning, please share what you remember.