Cardel Calvin

Cardel Calvin, age 77, was born May 13, 1948, in Lawton, Oklahoma, to Ruby Calvin-Copleand and Carlis Calvin. He entered eternal rest on January 14, 2026, surrounded by his loving wife and his family.

Cardel was known as a gentle giant. Though large in stature, he was soft-spoken, kindhearted, and had a caring and loving nature. He had a passion for jazz music, enjoyed science fiction, westerns and OU football, and was an avid reader. After attending Cameron University, he served his country in the United States Air Force for six years, including service during the Vietnam war. He later worked at Childrens Hospital before retiring as a bus driver for Oklahoma City Public schools.

Above all, Cardel cherished time spent with his family, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren who brought him immense joy.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Tinia Calvin, his children, Rene Knight, Nicholle Williams (Waylan), Michael Russell (Donna), John Russell (Cari), and Latrice Russell, ten grandchildren: Elijah Knight, Briana Rhodes (James), Byron Williams, Jordan Russell, Patrick Russell, Jacob Russell, Noah Russell, Eli Russell, Zhanice Russell and Issac Russell. Seven great grandchildren, Ember Rhodes, Hendrix Russell, Kai Russell, Kush Russell, Kingston Russell, Rachael Russell and Salem Russell.

He is also survived by his sisters, Brenda Carolyn Dunford (Billy), Sandra Thomas Copeland, Kathy Jones (Randy) and Veronica Adams; and his brothers: Charles Calvin, Barry Copeland (Vera), Dwight Copeland, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and other loving relatives.

Cardel was preceded in death by his mother, Ruby Calvin-Copeland and father, Carlis Calvin, his brothers Carlis Calvin Junior and Harold Copeland; his sisters Inez Elaine Hayes and Darniece Copeland, son, Cardell Calvin Jr. and grandchild Rachel Russell.