Jacqueline "Jackie" Sue Calvin

Danville - Jacqueline “Jackie” Sue Calvin, 86, of Danville, passed away at 8:59 AM on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at Accolade of Danville. She was born May 26, 1938, in Decatur, IL to Fredrick and Mary (Meeker) Cunningham.

Jackie’s love and light will continue to shine through her devoted sons, Joe (Linda) Calvin of Indianapolis, Indiana, and Scott (Richelle) Calvin of Scottsdale, Arizona. She was a dear sister to Sherry (Jack) Pickering of Danville and Fred (Kathy) Cunningham, also of Danville. Her memory will be treasured by her loving nieces and nephews, Marry Anna (Lowell) Hudson, Misty (Joey) Ray, Kelly (Dave) Williams, and J.P. Cunningham. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Throughout her life, Jackie poured her energy and warmth into her work. She began her working life as a secretary at the Danville Polyclinic. She then dedicated 28 years to GE/Valmont, moving on to other adventures after the closure of the Danville facility. At Jewell-Osco, Jackie’s friendly nature made her a comforting and familiar presence as she worked as a security officer. For many years the patrons at Rosies’s Tavern, owned by Jackie’s longtime friend Rosie, knew they could count on a smile and a good joke anytime Jackie was behind the bar. As a lunchroom and playground attendant, she was known as “Miss Jackie” at Cannon Grade School. Her kindness positively impacted many young lives, and she was beloved by the children and staff.

Jackie’s enthusiasm for life was infectious. She was a fiercely loyal fan of the Bulls, the Bears, the Illini, and above all, her beloved Chicago Cubs. Bowling was also a passion. She won many tournaments throughout the country and was inducted into the Danville Bowling Association Hall of Fame. In her youth, Jackie was a proud member of one of the area’s first women’s fast-pitch softball leagues. Her passion for sports extended to her family, and she could always be found on the sidelines, wholeheartedly cheering on her sons, nieces, and nephews at their games. Amidst all of this, Jackie was also a founding member of the Danville Turtle’s Club.

We will gather to celebrate Jackie’s beautiful life on Friday, April 25, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 3940 N. Vermilion St., Danville, IL 61834. Pastor Greg Taylor will officiate the service, and she will be laid to rest at Walnut Corner Cemetery. Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during the visitation on Thursday, April 24, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, also at Sunset in Danville. In honor of Jackie’s love for Illinois sports teams, please join the family in wearing Cubs, Illini, Bears, and Bulls gear for the visitation and service.

In remembrance of Jackie's kind and generous heart, memorial contributions may be made in her name to the Alzheimer’s Association.

The family would like to sincerely thank the staff at Accolade of Danville for the excellent care that Jackie received during her residency, and the staff at Transition Hospice Care for making Jackie’s final days as comfortable as possible.

Though our hearts feel heavy from her absence, we will forever embrace the warmth of her smile, the strength of her spirit, and the love she shared with us all. Jackie’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Please join Jackie’s family in sharing memories, photos, and video of her life through her tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.