James Calvin Sullivan was born on October 6, 1946, in Simpsonville, SC, to the late Lydia T. Owens Sullivan and Thomas Jefferson Sullivan Jr. He was the youngest of their five sons, Thomas Jefferson Sullivan III (deceased), John Willis Sullivan of Greenville, SC, Fred Louis Sullivan of Simpsonville, SC and Eddie Charles Sullivan (deceased) and their two daughters, Doris Sylvia Henderson (deceased) and Jeanette Marie Workman of Forestville, MD.

James Calvin, affectionately known as Big Calvin to his family and Calvin among his friends, grew up in the Reedy Fork area of Simpsonville on his family's farm where he and his siblings worked the land to support the family. Calvin was a strong student and avid learner. He graduated from Joseph R. Bryson High School in 1964 where he was recognized as Most Studious in his senior year. After high school, Calvin started his career at Cryovac (a division of Sealed Air Corporation) where he worked for over 45 years before retiring in 2010.

He was drafted in 1966 and served in the US Army at the Redstone Arsenal Army Base in Huntsville, Alabama for 2 years before being honorably discharged. While there, he was recognized with a National Defense Service Medal, a Good Conduct Medal and multiple marksman badges.

Calvin rejoined Cryovac when he returned from the service. During his time there, he was an active employee playing on the company's softball, basketball and golf teams. He also served as a basketball team coach.

Calvin was an icon in the Sullivan family and beloved by his numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews who all knew they could count on him. Whether it was to support their athletic endeavors, attend their graduations and other milestone moments or be their free transportation service; he was generous with his time and support. His impact on the lives of those who knew him is immense and everlasting. He will be deeply missed.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held 2 p.m., Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Beasley Funeral Home Greenville Chapel with Reverend T. E. Simmons officiating.