Calvin Speights

Calvin Speights, age 74, passed away peacefully in his sleep on December 1, 2023, in Live Oak, Texas. He was born on June 27, 1949, in Marianna, Florida to Elmer Speights Sr. and Lula Mae Speights. His parents raised him in the church, where he developed a strong Christian faith that guided and comforted him throughout his entire life. He loved growing up in a small town and had engaging childhood stories about a more nostalgic and peaceful way of life. He always said that small town, Southern food is unbeatable. He graduated from high school in 1967, from Jackson County Training School in Marianna, Florida.

Following graduation, Calvin proudly enlisted in the U.S. Air Force on July 27, 1967. Three years later, he met the love of his life, the most beautiful woman he had ever seen, Carolyn (Carol) Sue Wesley. He often described the early days of their relationship as some of the happiest times of his life. They were married in a quiet ceremony on June 14, 1971, at the Jackson County Courthouse, Justice of the Peace, in Marianna, Florida. They moved shortly thereafter when Calvin was stationed in the Philippines. They also lived in Plattsburgh, New York; Eglin Air Force Base, Florida; and Weisbaden Air Force Base, Germany; before eventually settling at Randolph Air Force Base, near San Antonio, Texas. Calvin proudly served his country for 22 years and retired as a Master Sergeant in 1989. He then worked for 12 years as a civil servant at Randolph Air Force Base, Brooke Army Medical Center, and Brooks Air Force Base. He remarked that he worked with some of the best people he had ever met, many of which became lifelong friends.

Calvin is survived by his wife Carol Speights, with whom he enjoyed 52 years and six months of marriage, his son and wife Jason and Paula Speights, his son and wife Jared and Mandy Speights, and his grandson Jonah Speights. Calvin was extremely proud of his grandson and would tell anyone who would listen about the kind, intelligent, and well-mannered young man Jonah is becoming.

Calvin was proud to be part of a large family and is also survived by his six siblings: brother and wife Elmer “Bosh” Speights Jr. and Norricia Speights, sister Eva Speights, sister and husband Mattizine “Mattie” and Charlie Young, brother and wife Alvin and Lynne Speights, sister Helen Speights, and brother Vernon Speights.

Calvin loved the outdoors and frequently spent time at his favorite camping spot in Canyon Lake, Texas. He enjoyed woodworking and never met a tool he didn’t like. He loved Texas BBQ and seafood. Music, especially smooth jazz, was a big part of his life. He loved motorcycles and had a special place in his heart for the Ford Mustang. He also enjoyed firearms and going to the gun range.

Calvin will be remembered as a kind, decent, fun-loving man who enjoyed a good laugh. He always had a bright smile and an open heart for those he met. He was a loving father to his two sons. He shared his life with his wife Carol and loved her deeply. Calvin fought the good fight and is now at peace. He will be missed by all who knew him.

A Funeral Service will be held at Cornerstone Church on Wednesday, December 13, 2023 at 10:00 AM, with a Visitation beginning at 9:00 AM. The Graveside Service will be held at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery the following day, Thursday, December 14, 2023 at 10:15 AM.