It is with deep sorrow that we mark the passing of James Earl Calvert on December 26, 2025, in Taos, New Mexico. He was 57 years old. Born on June 18, 1968, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to Frank Epton Calvert and Edith Ray Hilbert, James possessed an innate vibrancy that transformed the mundane into the memorable. His resonant humor could instantly animate a space, and his generous spirit made acquaintances feel welcomed as lifelong companions from the first meeting.
His formative academic years unfolded across multiple locales. He received his primary and intermediate education in Tulsa, imbibing the character of his early Oklahoma surroundings. He completed his secondary schooling in Fayetteville, North Carolina, residing with his sister Marietta. Upon graduation, he answered a call to service, enlisting in the United States Marine Corps.
A significant portion of his adult life was spent in California. In the late 1980s, in Oceanside, he met his former partner, Rich. They shared nearly twelve years in San Diego. Later, in Orange County, he connected with Jerry, who would become his spouse. They were married on October 7, 2013, in Santa Ana, crafting a shared life rich with experience in Long Beach and elsewhere.
Their days were filled with the pleasures of softball leagues, musical performances, journeys of discovery, and culinary exploration—pursuits enjoyed alongside a cherished circle of kin and friends. James approached existence with a bold and inquisitive heart, seizing each opportunity for new experience.
Professionally, he engaged in diverse and meaningful pursuits. He contributed writings to local periodicals, provided expertise at Roadrunner Sports, and channeled his enthusiasm for high-fidelity sound into specialty retail. His commitment to service paralleled his career. He served diligently as a Court Appointed Special Advocate, appointed by the judiciary to represent and safeguard the interests of children navigating the foster care system, ensuring their voices were heard.
He held a profound affinity for animals. Throughout his life, he provided devoted care to canine companions including Dee Dee, Kolton, Nigel, Sage, and Basil. Sage and Basil now reside with his dearest lifelong friend. James possessed a gift for recognizing the inherent worth in others, offered assistance freely, and imparted lessons on grace, personal well-being, and mindful living. His siblings cherished him uniquely: he was Rose’s cherished youngest, Jackie’s eternal devotion, and a brother of unwavering loyalty to Frank.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Marietta. James is survived by his husband, Jerry; his brother, Frank, and sister-in-law, Zeta; and his sisters, Jackie and Rose. While the weight of his absence is profound, the memory of his boundless affection and distinctive, uplifting laughter continues to resonate.
On Saturday, January 17 at noon, Timothy Baptist Church, situated at 817 East 46th Street North in Tulsa, Oklahoma, will host a ceremony honoring his life. This event will serve as a chance to honor a guy who lived with a great deal of genuineness and kindness as well as to consider the warmth he brought into the world. Everyone who was lucky enough to know James is still enlightened by the lives he impacted.
