Calvin E. Jones

Calvin Edward Jones, a beloved son, brother, father, grandfather, and friend, departed this life on July 25, 2026, following a long illness. Calvin was a native of Akron, Ohio, where he attended Akron Public Schools. He later earned his GED and received certification as a heavy-equipment operator through Job Corps in Golconda, Illinois. After working in various positions throughout Akron, Calvin relocated to Raleigh, North Carolina, in 1992. There, he worked in several industries, including his family’s landscaping business, before joining Merchant Metals in 2006. He remained with the company until his retirement in 2023. Calvin was considered the light of his family because he brought warmth and joy into every room he entered. His humor was infectious, and he had a special gift for making others smile, laugh, and feel genuinely loved. He loved and fiercely protected his family and would quite literally give the shirt off his back to anyone in need. Calvin was preceded in death by his mother and stepfather, Gwendolyn and Jesse Willis; his biological father, Arthur Wilson; and his son, Kyle Kinney. His passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. He leaves to cherish his memory his six siblings, Daryl, Brian, Anita, Hayland, Yvette, and David; his sons, Calvin Jr. (“CJ”) and Steven; five grandchildren; fourteen nieces and nephews; his lifelong best friend, Calvin Dowdell; his devoted life partner, Geraldine Applewhite (“Ms. G”); and many other relatives and friends. Those who knew and loved Calvin take comfort in knowing that, although his journey through life was often complicated, he remained centered on God. Because Calvin was saved and sanctified, his family has faith that his earthly journey has ended in the loving arms of God. Close friends and family will gather to celebrate Calvin’s life in his beloved hometown of Akron, Ohio, on September 5, 2026, at the Hilton Akron/Fairlawn on West Market Street. Condolences may be shared on this site or through subsequent social media posts published by the family.