Calvin Gilkes

Calvin Gilkes was born on July 15, 1933 in Georgetown, Guyana to the late Arthur and Amy (Gooding) Gilkes. He was the third of 10 children. Calvin was preceded in death by his brothers: Dennis Gilkes, Carl Gilkes, Arthur Gilkes, Jr. and Frank Gilkes; and two sisters: Mazie Gilkes and Monica Clarke.

Calvin received his education at 6th Standard in Georgetown. He was a member of Kettly Church where he sang faithfully in the church choir. During his years in Guyana, he enjoyed the pleasures of hunting, and he worked as a horse-and-cart driver making deliveries.

In 1961, Calvin met the love of his life, Delaries Barker. They were united in marriage in 1971, and from this blessed union came seven children. Calvin often said, “I love my wife and children and all I want is peace, love and good understanding.” Calvin later migrated to the U.S and settled in Cambridge, MA in 2005. He was a dedicated member of the Abundant Life Church, where he was baptized under the leadership of Bishop Lawrence A. Ward and Rev. Dr. Virginia Ward. He was also a part of the Senior Care Ministry. In 2010, Calvin proudly became a U.S. citizen. 

On November 15, 2025, Calvin peacefully transitioned from labor to reward. He leaves to cherish his memory: his beloved wife Delaries Gilkes; his children: Dennis Gilkes (Gloria), Colin Barker (Donna), Lindon Gilkes, Yvette Gilkes, Pearl Ann Gilkes, Melville Gilkes (Vanessa), Godfrey Gilkes (Natasha), and Yonette Gilkes (Desmond Cummings). He is lovingly remembered by his grandchildren: Samantha, Quincy, Rhonda, Richard, Dale, Sherry, Diana, Olivia, Cordel, Diane, Curt, Devonna, Tremain, Godfrey, Keneisha, Michael, Leroy, Keisha, Kimmone, Tambila, Nicola, Kerry Ann, Kelon, Keron, Kesson, Kandacy, Anson, Andrey, Alex, Andy, Adrian, Arielle, Princess, Prince, Brandy, and Angel; 53 great-grandchildren and 5 great-great-grandchildren. 

Calvin is further survived by his siblings: Lorna Lackish, Jean Primo and Lila Gilkes; sisters-in-law: Mary Paton and Maude Barker; special friends: John Macanara, Lynette Newton and Karen Davis; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, friends and his Abundant Life Church Family. Calvin’s life was defined by faith, love, and devotion to family. His legacy will live on in the many hearts he touched.

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