Cpo, Mcclain

Calvin Nobie McClain was the second of two children born to Nobie McClain and Grace Dunlap McClain on June 17, 1935, in Buffalo, New York. When Calvin was only twelve years old, he lost both his parents. He and his sister, Gloria were raised by his maternal grandmother, Sadie Dunlap. Calvin received his formal education in the Buffalo Public Schools. While in school, he was given the nickname "Bubba" by his cousin. By junior high school, Calvin became interested in the young ladies and he now wanted his friends to call him "Lil Joe from Buffalo." The name "Joe" stuck with him from that time forward. While in school, Calvin, and his sister, Gloria, were very proud to be known as two students, who had the "best penmanship" in the entire school district. In 1954, Calvin enlisted in the United States Air Force. He served for eight years. In 1962, he switched branches and enlisted in the United States Navy, serving for twelve years. While serving his country, he received numerous ribbons, awards and citations for meritorious service. He was able to travel the world five times. He served during both the Korean and Vietnams Wars. Calvin's job in the Navy was that of a Welder. His duties were extremely important to the mission of the ship during wartime. He retired in 1974, at the rank of Chief Petty Officer. On December 26, 1958, Joe united in holy matrimony to former Frances Smith in Buffalo. The story was often told about France's brother, Thomas telling their parents that she had gone to the movies with Joe. When night came, she hadn't returned home and he had to eventually tell them that Joe and Frances had eloped. They in turn called to let them know "they were married." To this union, two beautiful children were born, Paula Yvette and Brian Keith. He was later blessed with two grandchildren Fonshae Renee and Djuan Frances. The family shared many happy and precious moments together. In 1974, the family relocated to Denver, Colorado. Calvin had visited Denver during the summer of 1973, securing a job with the Denver Public Schools. He was the first African American to be hired as a Plumber. He furthered his education by attending Red Rocks Community College earning his certification to become a Master Plumber. He was hard- working, dedicated and a person who worked well with others. He was instrumental in recommending many of his friends for employment. He retired from Denver Public School in 1992. Joe was a God fearing man. He accepted the Lord as his personal savior at an very early age and was baptized at Saint John Baptist Church in Buffalo, NY. In October of 1974, he and the family joined Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church under the pastoral leadership of the late Reverend Dr. P.H. Gholston. He served his church as a member of the Brotherhood and the male chorus, where his tenor voice was always electrifying. He also loved the Christian camaraderie shared with the Brotherhood at St. Stephen Missionary Baptist Church. He truly enjoyed his walk with the Lord and fellowship shared with his Christian brothers and sisters. Joe was a kind man who would lend a helping hand to others. In his free time, he enjoyed playing pool, bid whiz and visiting the "The Hills" just to tackle the "one arm bandit." He will be missed by all who were fortunate enough to have known this kind and wonderful man who leaves a void that can never be filled and a legacy that will always be remembered. To know Joe was to love him. In the early morning hours of August 10, 2013, Jesus wrapped Joe in his bosom and carried him home. Those left to cherish his memory and mourn his loss include his daughter, Paula Y. Powell of Denver; his son, Brian K. (Silverene) McClain of Denver; two granddaughters, Fonshae R McClain of Atlanta, GA and Djuan Frances J. Powell of Denver; sister in laws, Hattie M. (Paul) Fennell, Decatur, GA, Corene Smith, Patricia Smith both Montgomery, AL and Juanita Smith, Birmingham, AL; brother in laws, Eddie J. Smith and Perry Martin both Montgomery, AL and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, the Pilgrim Rest Church Family and the Denver Hospice Family.

Funeral Home: Pipkin Braswell Funerals and Cremations - 6601 East Colfax Avenue, Denver, CO
Visitation: 8/18/2013 at 12:00 PM - Pipkin Braswell - 6601 East Colfax Avenue, Denver, CO
Service: 8/19/2013 at 11:00 AM - Rising Star Missionary Baptist Church - 1500 So. Dayton Street, Denver, CO
Cemetery: Staging Area A Ft. Logan National Cemetery - Denver, CO