Willie B. "Bill" Calvert Jr. was born on May 10th, 1946, to Willie B. and Ernestine Calvert in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He was the oldest of seven children to that union. At the young age of 12, he met his soulmate and knew he would spend the rest of his life with her. On June 29th, 1968, he married Jeanette Pruitt. Both Bill and Jeanette accepted the Lord at Community Bible Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Starlon Washington, on July 27th, 1975. He often shared his love and belief for the Lord with others. He spent his career dedicated to the community through his 27 years at Waste Management and later with Dean Transportation, where he was not only a respected colleague but also a friend to many.

Bill's formative years were spent walking the halls of South High School, where he received his education and formed lasting friendships. He was known for his silver '67 Mustang named "Soul Shaker" and could be found racing the streets of Grand Rapids. Sports became a passion; he found great joy in playing basketball and football. He spent many Summers playing in Gus Mackers with his nephews Marquis, Tony and Cisco. However, it was his role as a coach for his sons football team, that truly showcased his leadership and ability to inspire young athletes. His dedication to coaching was more than a hobby; it was a testament to his commitment to his community and the positive development of its youth. Later, he enjoyed watching his son Jerrell box in the Golden Gloves.

Those who knew Bill will remember him as the life of the party, always ready with a joke or a warm smile. His sense of humor was infectious, and he had a unique ability to lighten the mood in any room. He was also incredibly friendly, making friends with ease and maintaining those relationships with a genuine interest in people's lives. Above all, Bill was faith-filled, living his life with a sense of purpose and a deep conviction in his beliefs.

Bill was a family man at heart. His most treasured moments were those spent surrounded by his loved ones. Whether it was a quiet evening at home, grandkids spending the night, a family gathering, or cheering on his grandchildren at their own sporting events, these times were the source of his greatest joy.

Bill's legacy is one of laughter, camaraderie, and unwavering faith. He leaves behind a community that is brighter for his presence and a family that will continue to honor his memory by living out the values he instilled in them. His departure from this world is not just a loss to those who knew him, but to all who could have benefited from the kindness he so readily shared.

Bill is preceded in death by his father Willie B. Calvert, mother Ernestine Calvert, brother Ricky Calvert, and sisters Connie Calvert and Sheila Calvert. He leaves to mourn, cherish, and celebrate his life, his wife of 56 years, Jeanette Pruitt-Calvert; Three children, Nyeasa Calvert; O'Niah (Jimel) Calvert-Hobbs; Jerrell Calvert; Eight grandchildren, Jordan Calvert, Miyona Calvert, Jea'Niah Calvert, Imani Calvert, Najah Calvert, Jerrell Calvert Jr., Ja'Michael Calvert, Micah Calvert; one step-grandchild; Janiya Hobbs; one great grandchild; Alante Calvert; Three beloved siblings; Kimberly Calvert of Atlanta, Georgia; Travis (Jill) Calvert and Chad Calvert both of Grand Rapids, Michigan; He shared a special bond with the entire Pruitt family and a host of cousins, nieces and nephews.

As we remember Bill, we celebrate a life well-lived and a man well-loved. His memory will continue to inspire laughter, promote fellowship, and encourage faith in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to cross his path. His spirit, forever etched in our hearts, will continue to inspire and uplift us. He was the epitome of a friend, the life of any gathering, and a devout soul who walked by Faith. His legacy isn't just in the laughter he left behind, but in the smiles he creates as his stories continue to be told. Billy, the man who could find humor in anything, will be deeply missed but fondly remembered whenever we need a reason to smile.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, December 27, at 11 AM, at Wellspring Church, 811 Wealthy Street SE. Visitation will be held for one hour prior, beginning at 10 AM. Entombment at Chapel Hill Memorial Park.