George Bernard Calhoun, was born on July 27, 1940 in Brooklyn, Illinois. He was the youngest of three children born to the union of Ernest and Carlee Calhoun.

George was educated in the Brooklyn, Illinois Public School System.

On December 25, 1986, George was united in Holy Matrimony to his forever love and soul mate, Essie Calhoun. Although no children were born of this union, George and Essie cherished and loved their combined families that consisted of Marcus (Anita) Calhoun, Dacia Betta and Khari Burrell.

George and Essie had a wonderful loving marriage and friendship. Together, they enjoyed each other and accomplished many things including opening Opal's House, a homeless shelter for women and their children in East St. Louis, IL Opal's House was affectionately named after George's beloved Aunt Dorothy Opal Harvey to honor her memory and dedication to the community.

George was a happy, go lucky, positive, and caring man with a heart of gold. He had a hearty strong laugh and a wonderful smile no matter what life brought his way. His signature grin, often held a toothpick. He knew how to live life to the fullest and embrace all of the happiness and blessings brought his way. He truly cherished being with his family and friends. George was a loving grandfather who enjoyed his title as "Papa George." George appreciated good food, and enjoyed traveling with Essie, playing pool, and watching sports.

George was employed with TWA and American Airlines for 20 years. Upon retiring he used his people skills to work a Harrah's Casino and Lumiere Casino in the Guest Safety Department as a Security Officer. Until May 2023 he worked at Mallicordt as a Security Officer. He continued smiling and making new friends as he considered working, more of a wonderful hobby than a job.

George fought a long and hard fight until he was called home on Saturday, April 13, 2024 at the Missouri Baptist Hospital (his favorite place). He was preceded in death by both parents; one sister (died at birth); one brother, Harold Ernest Calhoun; two loving aunts, Dorothy Opal Havey and Gladys Sherrod.

Cherishing his memories are his loving and devoted wife, Essie ("Weezie"); son, Marcus (Anita) Calhoun; step-daughter, Dacia Betts; step-son, Khari Burrell; grandsons, Korey Calhoun and Desmond Calhoun; step-grandchildren, Thari Owens, John Betts and Briana Betts; great-grandchildren; cousins, "His Girls" sisters, Robin and Tiffany who he lovingly played one against the other until the very end. George is still smiling because they are still fighting over him!!