Calvin D. Chism, Sr.

Calvin Delano Chism, Sr. was born on February 4th, 1934 in Redstone Township, Pennsylvania. Calvin was the 8th child born to the late Edward Gilbert and Avis Estelle (née Woody) Chism. As a baby, his eldest sister Berniece noted how chubby he was and gave him the nickname “Bunchie”. His family would call him by that name his entire life.   

Growing up, Calvin had many friends and was quite the practical joker. He attended schools in Thompson and Republic, Pennsylvania where he played football as a defensive tackle. The family moved to Washington, D.C. where Calvin graduated from Cordoza Senior High School in 1952.   

After high school, Calvin enlisted in the United States Army. He was first stationed at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri, where he became a member of the military police. Later, his tour of duty took him to Korea. After serving, he moved to Washington, D.C. and then to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania before settling in Cleveland, Ohio. There, he worked as a bus driver for the Regional Transit Authority (RTA) and then for the United States Post Office.   

On Saturday, July 18th, 2020 Calvin departed this life tragically in a house fire. He was preceded in death by his wife Velma R. Chism (née Redd) and his siblings Theodore “Hardy” Chism, Rudyard “Kip” Chism, Ada Woodland, and Mildred “Moosha” Britton.   

He is survived by his children Nancy Chism Galloway, Calvin Chism, Jr., Kelli McMiller-McDowell, Janaya McMiller, and Iris E. Chism, as well as 16 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchilden. Calvin is also survived by his siblings Berniece Hutchins, John Chism (Carolyn), Earl Chism (Vera), Delilah Giles, Patricia Chism, Ronald Chism, and Marlene Crowe (Lorenzo). He leaves behind of a host of cherished nieces, nephews, and friends.    

***Due to the sudden nature of the passing and challenges caused by coronavirus, the family does not yet have plans in regards to a service. Once plans are finalized information will be posted.***