James Earl Calhoun, 77, of Fork, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 27, 2022, surrounded by his family at Regency Hospital in Florence.  He was born in Marion County on March 13, 1945, and was the son of the late James Mack Calhoun and Dorothy Thomas Calhoun.

James Earl was a graduate of Lake View High School, where he was a member of the 1961 state championship football team.  Following his graduation from high school, he began a lifelong career farming the land that he loved.  He had a great love for the family farm, especially the "River Farm."  James Earl was an avid hunter and hosted many bird hunts on the farm, enjoying fellowship with his friends. His infectious smile led him to not be a stranger to anyone. He loved horses and enjoyed riding them often.  His greatest love was his family and his "cows," including his very special dog, Dundee.  He most enjoyed following the children and grandchildren in sports and very rarely missed any game despite failing health.  This love brought him to join the Pee Dee Academy Booster Club and help coach softball.  As a member of the Booster Club, he was instrumental in raising money for the school.  James Earl was a member of Hopewell United Methodist Church in the Fork Community, which he loved.

In addition to his parents, James Earl was predeceased by his brother William Wade (Billy Wade) Calhoun and two sisters, Mary Emma Bultman and Clara Mack Anderson.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 46 years, Ann George Calhoun of Fork, two daughters, Cindy Lewis (Steve) of Fairmont and Jamie Estes (Neal) of Fork, and five grandchildren, Jett and Slate Lewis, Gabe, Rivers, and Katie Estes.

A service to celebrate his life will be held at 3:00 pm, Sunday, May 1, 2022, in the chapel of Meares Funeral Home in Mullins.  The family will receive friends following the service and at other times at Jamie's home in Fork.

If you would like to remember James Earl, the family suggests that donations be made in his memory to Hopewell United Methodist Church, c/o Terry Thompson, 2021 Buck Swamp Road, Fork, South Carolina 29543, or the Pee Dee Academy Booster Club, P.O. Box 449, Mullins, South Carolina, 29574.

An online guestbook is available at www.mearesfh.com.