Raymond G. Graham

             Raymond G. Graham, age 74, passed away peacefully on August 15 at his home surrounded by loved ones after a 17-month battle with glioblastoma brain cancer. Raymond was born in 1949 in Jefferson County to the late John and Stella (Johnson) Graham. 

            Raymond was a 1967 graduate of North Vernon High School. He married Kimberly S. Graham in 1993, she survives. Raymond worked many manufacturing jobs while attending five years of night classes to become a commercial plumber/pipefitter/welder.  He was a member of Plumber/Pipefitter Union Local 632 and 440 for many years.  He served as president of Plumber/Pipefitter Union Local 632 for three years. He worked non-union for 25 years with Starks Mechanical.  He finally fully retired at age 69.

            Raymond “lived in the moment” and NEVER met a stranger.  He was sharp-witted with piercing blue eyes and a beautiful smile that drew people in.  He never had a bad day. He was well known for his practical jokes and sayings “Raymond-isms” that never failed to keep you in stitches.

            Raymond had a giving heart and enjoyed fishing, hunting, mushroom hunting, playing euchre, Nascar racing, and camping. Family fish fries that included rocky mountain oysters and turkey fries were common at the Graham household. He was always happy to lend you a dime or a helping hand. Tropical vacations to Caribbean getaways were a passion. Raymond took pride in keeping his lawn well-manicured and beating the neighbors to the first mow and last mow of the season.

            In addition to his wife of 30 years, Raymond was the proud father of two sons Kyle (Natalie) Graham of Greenwood and Ray Graham of Columbus.  Survivors also include his siblings:  Brown (Barb) Graham of Commiskey, Margaret (Richard) Wettrick of North Vernon, Nancy (David) Brewer of Scipio, Bob Graham of Commiskey, Larry (Frances) Graham of Deputy, Pete (Becky) Graham of North Vernon, and faithful friends Leo Graham (grand dogs) Duke and Wally Graham.

            He was also preceded in death by brothers: Dink Graham, Tim Graham, and Otis Graham.

            A funeral service will be conducted at Dove-Sharp & Rudicel Funeral Home on Saturday, August 19 at 1 p.m. with Reverend Dan Corbin officiating.  Visitation for family and friends will be from 11 until 1 prior to service.

            In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the American Cancer Society, Amedisys Hospice, or the donor’s choice of charities.

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