John Calvin Fitzgerald, of Cushing, Texas, passed away peacefully at his home on June 9, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Arrangements are under the care of Dickie Allen Funeral Home in Cushing, Texas.

Calvin, lovingly known as "Paw" to many of us, lived a life full of hard work, service, adventure, laughter, and love. He attended Douglas School, but during his elementary school years he was often taken out of school to help pick cotton in West Texas. He loved telling stories about those days, including one about staying in a house with no windows. After hearing coyotes howling outside one night, he nailed boards over the window openings because he was so scared.

On December 26, 1952, Calvin married the love of his life, Patsy Ruth Wallace. Together they shared more than 73 years of marriage, building a life centered around family, hard work, and love. After they were married, Calvin served in the United States military from August 18, 1954, until July 26, 1956. His service took him from basic training in El Paso, Texas, to New York and eventually Germany. He often laughed while telling stories about sneaking out of the barracks whenever he could to spend time with Patsy.

Calvin was a proud member of the Cushing Masonic Lodge and Boilermakers Local 587 of Orange, Texas. He worked hard throughout his career and retired from the Boilermakers at the age of 58.

Anyone who knew Calvin knew he was a storyteller. He loved sharing stories from his life, especially with his grandchildren. One favorite was about the crane that flew down from Maine. He and Patsy also loved to travel and especially enjoyed spending time at their cabin in the mountains.

Calvin was known for his sense of humor and love of practical jokes. One family favorite was when he draped a sheet over himself and scared his grandsons Bryan, Jasun, and Colt while they were walking down the road. It became one of those stories the family would tell again and again.

More than anything, Calvin loved his family. He was proud of his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren, he treasured every moment spent with them.

Calvin is survived by his loving wife, Patsy Ruth Wallace Fitzgerald; his children, Ronald Fitzgerald, Michael Fitzgerald, Patsy Woods, and Tina Lucky; sisters Jackie Fitzgerald Thornton and Shirley Fatheree; Brother in law Dan Weatherly; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, and extended family members, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Arin Wright Fitzgerald and Annie Irene Looney; his brothers, Benny Roy Fitzgerald and Ruben A. Fitzgerald; his sister, Annie Irene Rogers; and his grandsons, Gregory Colt Lucky and Michael Jasun Fitzgerald.

Calvin will be remembered for his stories, his laughter, his hardworking spirit, and the love he had for his family. He leaves behind memories that will be cherished for generations to come. While he will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort in knowing that his stories, his wisdom, and the love he shared will live on through all those who knew and loved him.

A Graveside Service will be held on Friday, June 12, 2026, at 10:00 A.M., at Pirtle Cemetery, with Brother Buford Sanders Officiating.

Military Honors will be provided by the United States Army.

Masonic Ceremony presented by The Milam #2 Masonic Lodge, from Nacogdoches, Texas.