Calvin Augusta "Cal", "Hop" Hobson, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, friend, and mentor, passed away peacefully on January 1, 2026. He leaves behind a legacy rooted in service, love, faith, and joy. To those who knew him best, he was steady, unassuming; to those whose lives he touched, he was a guiding light. His life's work—lived with humility, purpose, and compassion—continues to speak in every person he influenced.

Born on January 26, 1933, in Newport News, Virginia, to the late Arthur Hobson, Sr. and Cornelia Nevis Ferguson Hobson, Calvin was a proud son of the city that shaped him and that he, in turn, helped shape. He attended Newport News public schools graduating from Huntington High School with the Class of 1952, where he played basketball and sang in the school choir. These were early glimpses of the discipline, teamwork, and harmony that would define his life. Even then, his character reflected servant leadership, compassion, and integrity. Calvin continued his education at Hampton Institute and Norfolk State College, preparing him for what would become a lifelong calling.

In 1955 he began his service with the Boys Club as Athletic Director, embarking on a four-decade commitment to youth development. From 1965 to 1989 he served as Executive Director of the Hampton Roads Boys Club. Instrumental in the integration of girls into the organization, in 1989 Calvin led them in a campaign to construct the new Hampton Roads Boys and Girls Club and renovation of the Citizens Boys and Girls Club. From 1989 to 1990 he coordinated the merger of the Hampton Roads and Citizens Boys Club to form the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Hampton Roads where he served as Executive Director until his retirement in 1995.

Ever the visionary, Calvin's work at the Boys Club in downtown Newport News during segregation extended far beyond programs and titles. With his mind constantly at work in uplifting the community, he made a difference where it mattered most—mentoring youth. He provided love and guidance and created a safe and nurturing space for youth. Though quiet in demeanor, he was a formidable father figure, deeply trusted by youth and parents alike. He became the go-to man whose presence anchored the room. His likeness and legacy, immortalized in a mural on the side of the Newport News Boys and Girls Club for generations to come.

In 1995 in recognition of his lifelong service, Calvin was honored by the Newport News Chapter of 100 Black Men as a recipient of the President's Humanitarian Award—an acknowledgment befitting his selfless and powerful dedication to others. When asked by a journalist composing an article about the Boys and Girls Club for the Daily Press what he would have done had he not worked there, Calvin responded, "I probably would have gone into the ministry." What a blessed life and ministry he led.

A treasured member of Second Baptist Church, Calvin's faith was integral to his walk. He served joyfully as a trustee, past President of the Usher Ministry, member of the Finance Committee, participant in the Men's Ministry, and a proud member of the Male Chorus.

Composed and calm, Calvin embodied a humor that, with the repetition of a word and his quick wit, could bring raucous laughter and warmth to everyone around. His children, granddaughter, nieces, nephews, cousins, and so many others benefited from his composure, wit, guidance, care, and consistency. His life soothed, embraced, uplifted, and inspired as he brought security and direction simply by being who he was.

Above all, Calvin's heart belonged to his family. He is predeceased by his parents, Cornelia and Arthur Hobson, Sr.; daughter, Deborah Hobson; sister, Viola Thomastine Hobson Smith (Will); brother, Arthur Hobson, Jr. (Florence); niece, Shelly T. Smith and nephew, Will Smith, III. He shared 62 years of unconditional love and devotion with his beloved wife, Carolyn Elaine Lipscomb Hobson. He is the beloved father of Olga M. Hobson, Darielle E. Hobson and the doting and proud grandfather of Delainey A. Hobson-Stokes. He will be lovingly remembered and emulated by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and mentees.

Though profoundly sad, we joyously carry the torch of Calvin's spirit; ignited in service, humility, compassion, and love.

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, January 17, 2026 at Second Baptist Church East End.  Viewing will be from 3:00-6:00 p.m. on Friday, January 16, 2026 at the funeral home and two hours prior to the service at the church on Saturday.  Please keep his family in your thoughts and prayers.  O. H. Smith & Son Funeral Home is honored to serve the family.