Mr. Calvin James Smith, Jr.

UTICA - Mr. Calvin James Smith, Jr., age 56, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, July 23, 2017 at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center. Born in Brooklyn, New York on January 26, 1961, Calvin was the son of the late Calvin J., Sr. and Muriel (Harper) Smith. Raised and educated in Brooklyn, Calvin graduated from high school at 15 1/2 years old and continued his education at Brooklyn College where he received a degree in Journalism. A proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps, Calvin honorably served his county stateside from 1978-1980. He often reminded others that the Marines were the best and… “always faithful”. In 1984 he married the former Ruby Wheeler and they have remained friends to this day. He was later blessed with three children from his loving relationship with Melissa Perry. Calvin worked in his career as a Diesel Mechanic and in the construction industry for many years, notably at the George A. Nole Construction Company. At one point, his Dad’s house in Aurora, North Carolina was destroyed by a hurricane. Calvin came to the rescue and rebuilt his dad’s home adding greater dimensions and special touches to it. He considered it one of his greatest achievements. He was currently taking online courses to become a licensed contractor. Calvin cherished each day and was a determined man, always with a purpose in mind. As a dad, he instilled in his children the value of honor, dignity, self-respect, and courage. The quest for an education was just as important as the quality of sportsmanship his children displayed in athletic competitions. Calvin had an eye for art and was a perfectionist by nature. He was well-articulated in his conversations, well-appointed in his attire, and well-assured in his confidence and composure. He was a deep thinker. As a brother, he made his siblings proud of the man he was. He became the man of the house when his parents separated, and he would reminisce of former times when the family was together. He was a very competent cook, and he made his meals from scratch, a talent he was taught by his mother who took the time to make him self-sufficient. He was also a regular reader with an interest in the intersection of Philosophy and Religion. He was well-versed in the Bible, sharing his philosophies and challenging others to be thought-provoking in their speech, to say the least. Calvin was a God-fearing man and lived his life seeking knowledge and wisdom. He met each phase of his life with the wisdom of an old soul and placed his strength in the sanctity of the Lord, the security of a loving family, and the search for knowledge. Calvin was a very health conscious man and held the black belt tae-kwon-do. Calvin is survived by his wife, Ruby; his children, who affectionately called him “Papa”, Calvin James “CJ” Smith III, Alexander Ray Smith, and Naomi Faith Smith; and his siblings and their spouses, Kim Harper, Gayle and David Holmes, Sharon and Madison Sockwell, Carolann Harper, Harold Harper, and Scott Wilson. He also leaves a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, and longtime friend, Andre Perry. Calvin honored his parents and always hoped that he made them proud. He was the first-born and beloved by all… he was the golden child. The family extends their appreciation to the Utica Police Department and the EMT’s for their prompt arrival, efforts, and compassion for the family; and the Emergency Room staff at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center who were very helpful. Visitation will be held Monday from 12:00-2:00 p.m. at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Calvin’s funeral service and Home Going Celebration will commence on Monday afternoon at 2:00 at the funeral home immediately upon conclusion of visitation with Rev. Marilyn Bell officiating the ceremony.

Mr. Calvin James Smith, Jr.

January 26, 1961 - July 23, 2017