Biography:

Doctor James “Michael” Calhoun, 67 of Little Rock, arrived in the loving arms of God on Friday, May 8, 2026.

Michael was born on February 22, 1959, in Hope, Arkansas. He graduated from Texas Senior High in Texarkana, Texas, before continuing his education at the University of Arkansas. He graduated in 1981 earning his B.S. in Chemistry and was proud brother of Sigma Nu Fraternity. He went on to receive his medical degree from the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences in 1985, later completing his residency in Neurosurgery and dedicating his life to the care of others through his distinguished medical career.

Michael was preceded in death by his father, James Terrell Calhoun. He is survived by his wife, Terri Calhoun, who he loved more than anything in this world; his beloved children, Alexis Calhoun, Austin Calhoun (Mackenzie), Haley Poveda (Andy) and Hannah Grace Hornbeck; and his cherished grandchildren, Eva Grace Poveda (4), Alan Poveda (2) and John Austin Calhoun (8 months).

He is also survived by his mother, Wanda Lee Calhoun; his sister, Mona Hosey (Ed); and his nieces, Heather Hubbert (Rob) and Whitney Buchin (Grant).

Michael was a highly respected neurosurgeon who dedicated 33 years to caring for his patients and serving his community. Known for his compassion, brilliance, and steady presence, Michael treated his patients like friends and made a tremendous impact on countless lives throughout his career. He was deeply respected within the medical community and remained devoted to the profession he loved, continuing to work and care for others up until the day he passed. In the same way Michael cared for his patients, the family would like to extend their gratitude to the doctors & nurses who cared for him, specifically, Dr. Brad Baltz and Dr. Santanu Samanta.

Outside of his career, Michael was an avid Arkansas Razorback fan and generous donor to the Razorback Foundation Inc that supports Razorback Athletics and proud member of the Cardinal & White Society. He was a wine collector and art enthusiast. He loved to travel, and nothing brought him greater joy than experiencing the world alongside his beloved wife, Terri.

Though Michael touched countess lives throughout his career and personal life, nothing meant more to him than his family. His favorite title was “Papaw” to his three grandchildren, who brought him immeasurable happiness and pride to his life. His love, wisdom, humor and presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A memorial service will be held at 5PM on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at New Life Church in West Little Rock. Arrangements are under the direction of Ruebel Funeral Home. RuebelFuneralHome.com

In Lieu of flowers, donations are asked to be made, in his name, to the Razorback Foundation Inc or UAMS Cancer Institute.