Julius Paul Calhoun

Julius Paul Calhoun, affectionately known as Chubby, passed away on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, in Ninety Six, South Carolina, at the age of 68. Born on November 30, 1957, in Greenwood, South Carolina, he was the son of the late Robert C. and Pauline Jones Calhoun. He was a tall man with a gentle presence, an amiable spirit, and the kind of southern gentlemanly manner that left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. 

Julius graduated from Ninety Six High School in 1976 and later earned his Bachelor of Science degree in General Business from Lander University in 1984 while employed at McGraw Edison. His education reflected the same determination and steady work ethic that guided his life. From an early age, he learned the value of hard work, and at just 15 years old he began working for his brother Donnie as a gopher building houses. That early experience led him into the pallet industry, where he later supervised employees and developed the practical skills that would serve him throughout his career. 

In 1980, Julius began a rewarding and distinguished career with then McGraw Edison, which later merged with Cooper Power Systems and was eventually acquired by Eaton. He started in work production and then moved into entry-level maintenance, where his intelligence, dependability, and hands-on ability quickly became evident. He advanced to maintenance specialist and then maintenance supervisor, a role he held from 1989 until 2011. He later served as assistant project manager at the Brazil facility and a project manager of a plant build in China, then as project manager and maintenance supervisor at the Greenwood facility from 2014 until his retirement in 2015. Even after retirement, he remained a valued member of the team and was asked to return as project manager until his health no longer allowed him to continue. His long career was a testament to his skill, loyalty, and strong sense of responsibility. 

Julius had a remarkable talent for fixing things and working with his hands. He loved woodworking and had a special eye for repurposing old things into something useful and meaningful. His home reflected that gift, as it became a collection of items he had salvaged over the years and thoughtfully integrated into every corner. He found satisfaction in creating, repairing, and improving, and those who visited him could see his creativity and resourcefulness in the spaces he shaped.

He also enjoyed water skiing and treasured the time he spent with family and friends. Whether gathered for conversation, laughter, or simple companionship, Julius valued those moments and made others feel welcome in his presence. He was a lifelong member of Siloam Baptist Church and his connection to his church family was an important part of who he was. His faith and upbringing helped shape the kind and steady man remembered by so many. 

Julius is survived by his wife, Sonya Abbott Calhoun; his son, Greyson Julius Calhoun, and wife, Gracy; and his grandchildren, Cooper Chad Calhoun and Rosemary Grey Calhoun. He is also survived by many extended family members and friends who will cherish his memory and the example he set through his life. He was preceded in death by his son, Christopher Chad Calhoun, his brothers, Donnie Calhoun and Joshua Turner Calhoun, and his sister, Jeanette Alford. Julius will be remembered as a man of strength, kindness, and quiet dignity. He was a gentle giant in every sense, admired for his tall stature, warm heart, and steady character. He lived a life marked by hard work, devotion to family, and a deep appreciation for the simple and lasting things in life. His memory will remain a blessing to all who knew and loved him.

Funeral services will be held Friday, July 3rd, 2026 at 2 o’clock p.m. at Siloam Baptist Church. Interment will follow at Bethlehem Cemetery. The family will receive friends Friday beginning at 1:00 p.m. until the hour of the service at the church.

Beggs Funeral Home Lincolnton is honored to serve the family of Mr. Julius P. Calhoun.