James Calhoun

JAMES CALHOUN was born on October 28, 1935, in Cruger, Mississippi, to the union of Jebb and Lucille Calhoun, both of whom preceded him in death. James, or “JJ,” as he was affectionately called, was the eldest son of Jeb and Lucille Calhoun. He was a guiding light and a source of resilience in the Calhoun family, having also been predeceased by his siblings, Rubin, Leroy, Geraldine, Katherine Dothard, Alma, Doris, Roosevelt, Melvin, and five additional siblings; his cherished niece, Doris “Jeanne” Woods; and great-niece, Cheanita “Meme” Woods. JJ was educated in Cruger, and from an early age worked alongside his siblings on the Calhoun land–a testament to his tireless spirit and unwavering sense of duty. Known for his exceptional culinary skills, JJ’s cooking was a gesture of love that brought joy to everyone who was fortunate enough to gather at his table. He accepted Christ as his personal savior at an early age under the leadership of Pastor C.L. Jones at St. Peter Rock Missionary Baptist Church. Drafted into the United States Army, JJ proudly served his country during the Vietnam War. His service took him across the globe to Frankfurt and Munich, Germany. During combat, he survived a near fatal head injury, and was miraculously protected by his helmet, earning a rare reprieve from battle that highlighted both his bravery and luck. After an honorable discharge, JJ moved to Detroit, Michigan, where he began work with a General Motors contractor. Later, thanks to an invitation from his sister Katherine, he relocated to Chicago, beginning a new chapter that included employment with USS Gary Steel Works, and eventually a long and steady career with Burney Brothers Baking (now Alpha Baking Company), where he retired with a Teamsters Union pension. After retirement, JJ enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He loved to travel, go fishing, and spend time at the casino. JJ passed peacefully on July 23, 2025, in Oak Lawn, Illinois, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. His legacy lives on through: his surviving brother Al Jean “Doll” Calhoun of Chicago; nieces, Rogerine, Marietta, Katherine, and Helen; nephews, Terry, Lerenzo (Hope), and Cory; great-nieces, Tracy, Marquita (Antonio), Alexandria (Jared), Terri Lynn, and TJ; great-nephews, Chase, David (Itasia), Kevin, Myles, and Christian; and a beautiful extended family of great great nieces and nephews, cousins, and dear friends. As the patriarch of the Calhoun family, JJ was a pillar of wisdom, strength, and love–someone to call for advice, lean on during hard times, and celebrate life’s joys with. He was a devoted son, brother, uncle, great-uncle, confidant, and friend, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the honor of knowing him

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James Calhoun, please visit our floral store.