Calvin Lloyd Vickers

Calvin Lloyd Vickers was born December 29,1956 to James Vickers Sr. and Betty Jean Vickers (nee´ McCloud) in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The Lord provided him a home in heaven on Friday, January 5, 2019. He is survived by his wife, Fanchette “French” (Lee) Vickers; son, Robert Vickers, daughter, Felicia Pippins, grandchildren: Cheneyah, Michael-David, Gabriella, Donzil, Aviana, and Nadia: Mother, Betty Jean Vickers: Brothers, James L. Vickers, Jr. (Lilly), Bruce Vickers, Gregory Vickers, Lawrence Vickers and Sisters, Patricia Thompson and Kathy Vickers. He’s preceded in death by his father, James L. Vickers, Sr and brother, Keith Vickers.

As a teenager, Calvin (or Vic as called by French and outside friends) was motivated by hard work for gaining independence in life of self-preservation. He never wanted to burden anyone financially for opportunities he could established himself. Thus, this “drive” began at 15 years old working at the BBQ Spot in Fort Lauderdale. This delicious job allowed him to purchase his first car, a Pinto, with timely payments due, his dad as his financer. By 17 years old, his parents signed paperwork for Calvin to join the Air Force in 1974. His first assignment was at Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma. He worked as a medic in the Emergency Department with future brother-in-law, Oziea Wallace (Shirley). By 1976, Oziea introduced Vic to Fanchette “French” Lee. French instantly fell in love with Vic who showed displays of kindness, compassion, and devotion. They met, eloped and married within three months on August 16, 1976.

Vic had many military assignments: Fairchild AFB, Washington; Myrtle Beach AFB, South Carolina; Eielson AFB, Alaska, with Altus AFB being his last assignment. During this time, he has several deployments in Korea, Norway, Saudi Arabia, Hawaii, and Germany. As a medic, Vic received several recognition from air force physicians and patients for his attention to detail while working on the ward and in flight medicine. He received AF Commendation Medal along with other medals/ribbons with an honorable retirement after 23 years of service. After retirement, Calvin worked as a nursing assistant at the VA Medical Center in Little Rock, Arkansas. His last position was working as a transportation driver even after being diagnosed with a chronic illness. He was so committed that he would go to work in heavy rain, snow, and/or icy weather conditions. Nothing would prevent Calvin from caring for Veterans who needed transportation to their homes (sometimes a 1 to 8 hour drive); or required timely chemo or dialysis. Committed.

Vic enjoyed life! While stationed in Alaska, he become a devoted father to Robert and Felicia. He taught them to be independent and kind. They were gifted by his kindness and love through family vacations, mostly in Orlando, Florida; attending professional basketball & football games and many other venues. Calvin made sure that they learned to swim at an early age. He would join his children in the swimming pool jumping off the diving board while holding his breath “walking” to the side rim until he reached a safe height because HE COULD NOT SWIM. He attended his children’s basketball games, softball games, and school events. Calvin was always present in his children’s and grandchildren’s life throughout trials and tribulations. He's French “honey of a Husband.” As a husband, Vic pushed French to do things outside the box influencing her to achieved better positions in her career. During their later life, he had date nights every Tuesday at the movies, Vic loved a good deal.

In Alaska, he enjoyed river rafting in Denali Park, halibut/salmon fishing and attending hockey games. Vic and French were always welcoming and entertaining friends with delicious BBQ, baked beans, slaw, or catfish dinners—all cooked mostly by Vic. One long time brother of a friend, Spencer Pennick (wife Loretta) and sister-of-a friend, Rose Richardson (Larry), enjoyed many great BBQ dinners, Super Bowl events, and just outside family who deeply cared for Calvin. Of course, there are so many others who benefitted from being Vic’s friend but too many to count. These two continued to connect in good and sad times uplifting Vic’s spirits until the end.

Calvin and Fanchette attended Little Rock AFB Chapel for years in Arkansas. The prayers from outpouring support from AF Chapel friends are well appreciated.

Lastly, remember Calvin L. Vickers, a son who loved his family and one who fought a serious battle with faith and courage until the battle was over providing him eternal healing.

May God bless Calvin’s family and friends during this celebration of life.

The Vickers’ family appreciates the service provided by Kraeer Funeral Home and Military Honor Guard.