Nathaniel Calvert
Sunday, October 19, 1947
Date of Death:
Saturday, March 15, 2025
Age:
77 years old
Tribute Instructions
The family is creating a video montage (or "Tribute") for Nathaniel Calvert to celebrate his life and legacy. It will only take you a minute to film and submit your video. It should make for an unforgettable gift that shares our collective love and appreciation and memories. Don't be the last to submit!
Questions to answer in your tribute:
- What do you admire most about Nathaniel Calvert?
- What is an important lesson you have learned from Nathaniel Calvert?
- What is one of your fondest memories of Nat Calvert?
- What do you see as Nat's legacy?
To submit your video/content for Nathaniel Calvert, please click the link below from any device: https://ellacard.com/sign/f3b6b5a5-92bc-4a2e-9eb6-6c0b7bd2c211 Again, please submit your tribute within the next week.
Sunday, October 19, 1947
Date of Death:
Saturday, March 15, 2025
Age:
77 years old
Sunday, October 19, 1947
Date of Death:
Saturday, March 15, 2025
Age:
77 years old
Nathaniel Calvert
Nathaniel Calvert, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and pioneer in the field of technology, passed away peacefully March 15, 2025, at the age of 77.
Born on October 19, 1947, in West Point, Mississippi, Nathaniel was one of seven sons born to Vance and Flora Calvert.
Nathaniel was first married to Etrulia, with whom he had two daughters, Reva and Avis. Reva married Sean Tolliver, and they were blessed with four children: Shane, Rachel, Rebecca, Sean Jr., and John. Avis married Misty Herron, and they have one daughter, Sariah.
Later, he met his devoted wife, Jongy, and they were married on March 28, 2000. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, family, and service, sharing nearly 25 years of partnership and unwavering support for one another.
Nathaniel attended Knoxville College, a historically Black liberal arts college in Tennessee, where he pledged Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. He took great pride in the fraternity’s mission of leadership, scholarship, and service, values that he carried with him throughout his life.
In 1969, Nathaniel joined IBM as a computer programmer, where he built a distinguished 40-year career. He played a key role in the development of new technologies, including the AS/400, and earned 13 patents for his inventions, such as the Skin Thimble Needle Shield and the Hydroseat bike saddle. His contributions were frequently highlighted in IBM publications, showcasing his brilliance and ingenuity.
Beyond his professional success, Nathaniel was deeply passionate about mentoring and community service. Alongside his beloved wife, Jongy, he dedicated countless hours to BDPA (Black Data Processing Associates), mentoring and coaching students in Southern Minnesota. Under their guidance, the BDPA Southern Minnesota chapter became a national powerhouse, winning seven of nine High School Computer Competition (HSCC) national championships. Through their efforts, students gained valuable technical skills in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, PHP, and MySQL, earning high school credit and laying the foundation for bright futures. Nat was also instrumental in mentoring and helping students for close to 10 years in Rochester Community Baptist Church’s (RCBC) Student Enrichment Program.
In his later years, Nathaniel faced health challenges with grace and resilience. On March 15, 2025, he completed his earthly journey and entered eternal rest with his Heavenly Father.
Nathaniel Calvert leaves behind a legacy of innovation, education, and love. His wisdom, kindness, and dedication to his family and community will be cherished forever.
He is survived by his wife, Jongy Howard-Calvert; children Reva Tolliver, and Avis Herron; brother, Kenneth Calvert; and grandchildren.
Nathaniel was preceded in death by his parents, Vance and Flora Calvert; brothers, Ephriom Vance Calvert, William Earl Calvert, Alex Calvert, Harmon Calvert, and Clemmie L. Calvert.
He is dearly missed but never forgotten.
Online condolences are welcome at www.mackenfuneralhome.com.
Sign Guestbook
Send your condolences to the family of Nathaniel Calvert.
At the family's request, Macken Funeral Home will publish your message on this website.
Condolences
The family of Nathaniel Calvert has received the following condolences.
I had the pleasure of caring for Nat at cottagewood since he's been here. Through the ups and downs,highs and lows and with him on his journey with Dementia. It's never easy for family or staff but we all come together to enjoy every day and make the best this situation. He was a great man full of love ,life,and laughter and will truly be missed.....sincerely, Mr Larry L Oliver II,CNA
To Avis and family my sincerest condolences. Reading your dad's obituary gave me just a little glimpse into who he was as a man. And all the good that was in him is reflected in you and your sister. May time heal your hearts and his memory live on through your families and his contributions to technology. Love, Talaya
I remember Nat as an interesting, sometimes engaging, and loyal customer at my auto repair shop. As a receiver of one of his "Skin Thimbles" for my wife, to meeting members of his family when he came for my services, and our interactions, he was instantly recognizable to me in any venue found. RIP Nat!!!
Richard Freytag
Dear Jongy - your love and devotion to your husband was of great inspiration to me, especially when it became clear that times were getting more difficult. Now I’ve learned more about Nat through this obituary. What a remarkable man! I’m glad you and he had each other in your lives for these past 25 years.
With sympathy in your loss - I am thinking about you,
My Condolences to Nath's family. I work with Nath many years at IBM, and he was a person that was enjoyable to work with and to get the job done.
Jerry Harris
Nat and I became close friends as new hires at IBM Rochester in 1970. Nat became an avid bicyclist, and we went on many long rides together. This interest grew into his opening a bike shop in Rochester in March 1974 during a period of very high gas prices. The shop was immediately successful. He also used his creative talents to invent bike accessories to make biking riding more comfortable, especially for the hands and the butt. Our friendship endured, and we enjoyed comparing notes on what our kids were doing over the years. He was truly a great friend.