Calvin "Papa" Young, of Rockford departed this earthly life November 13, 2021. He was born March 30, 1936 in Whelen Spring, Arkansas the son of Odie and Artie Belle Young. Calvin lived in Rockford since 1972 coming from Milwaukee, WI. He married the former Gwendolyn G. Thomas October 24, 1998 in Rockford. Calvin was a Cement Block Producer by Rockford Cement Products 38 years before retiring. He was member St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church. Calvin also was a former member of Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church, where he served faithfully as an Usher and Trustee. He was a former member of the Rockford Freeport Usher Council. Calvin Attended school in Arkansas.

Calvin leaves to cherish many loving memoires, his loving wife, Gwendolyn G. Young; Caroline (Trevor) Thompson, Lillie Gay (Alfred) Burt Young, Donna (Flamond France) Young and Phillisha Stephens; sons, Calvin Young Jr., Johnny Young, Troy Young and Timothy Young; 16 grandchildren; step daughter, Tanya Hobson32 great grandchildren and 8 great great grandchildren; sister, Mary Alice Walker; five brothers, Eddie Lee (Maggielean) Young, Freddie (Glenee) Young, Rev. Charles (Delia) Young, Raymond (Diane) Young and Charlie Ray Young; a host of nieces, nephews other relatives and friends including god daughter Aysha Simpsonand special grand daughter, Carynton Hobson. He was predeceased by his parents, former wife, Clarietta Young; daughters Nadine and Lolitha Young; son, Otis Lee Young; grand daughter, Resa Young, grandchildren, Lafonzo and Kenyatta Young, Diamond McKinny.

Services will be held 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, November 23, 2021 at St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church 2919 19th Street. Burial in Sunset Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service. Arrangements completed by Carl E. Ponds Funeral Home Inc. 200 N. Johnston Ave.