Calvin Clinton Sowell, Jr

Calvin Clinton Sowell, Jr. (Aka Junie), the eldest of three children was born to Catherine Wright and Calvin Clinton Sowell, Sr. on November 9, 1947 in Columbus, Ohio. He completed his earthly journey on January 21, 2018.

Calvin was a product of the Columbus Public School System. He gave his life to the Lord Jesus Christ and was baptized at a very young age at Friendship Baptist Church. He attended Mohawk Junior high School and was one of the first African American males inducted into the National Honor Society. His scholastic achievements continued in high school and he graduated from Linden McKinley High School with honors.

Following graduation he enrolled at The Ohio State University (OSU) as a mathematics major with a minor in history. As a high achiever he excelled because he was a consummate impassioned learner. Daily trips to the library were not uncommon for him. Everything he read, he absorbed! He not only excelled academically, but believed in fighting for causes to stimulate and advocate for positive change. As his interest in campus activism increased, he also desired to become part of something meaningful by combining social purpose with social action and pledged Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. It was on the campus of OSU that be met Veronica (Ronnie) Sims. Calvin Clinton Sowell, III was born from their union. Their friendship continued throughout the years. He also met his life long friends and confidantes, John Moorehead, John Mosely and Ernie Jackson who is now deceased.

After earning his Bachelors Degree in 1971, his keen intellect and passionate advocacy afforded him employment with CMACAO where he worked for many years. Calvin believed "it was not about money, but about people". He was a public servant who served his community while volunteering with agencies such as Neighborhood House, Driving Park Community Center, Long Street Business Association, and Mt Vernon Plaza Business Association He had a heart for the unfortunate and fought for better homes, fair housing, and improved living conditions. He used his skills in grant proposal writing and tax consulting to assist small businesses. Affectionately known as "The Bread Man" by some, he distributed bread in the community as one of his benevolent missions. His community loved him and he loved his community.

Finally, Calvin loved and adored his family. He believed in passing down and upholding his family legacy and beliefs in giving your time, that you are not in this life alone, and supporting your community. He was a proud independent man who sought to be an example to his son and grand-daughters. Calvin III was the apple of his father's eye with whom he was very proud. His sisters were dear to him and he to them. He will be sorely missed.

Calvin leaves to cherish precious memories his son, Calvin III (Meagan L.); granddaughters, McKenzie, of San Diego, California; Morgan of Tallahassee, Florida and MiKaela of Atlanta, Georgia. Sisters, Brenda Sinclair and Terrilyn Sowell; Niece, Joy Catherine and nephew, Justin, all of Columbus, Ohio. Best Friend, John Moorehead and numerous relatives and friends.