James "Jimmy" C. Graham

James “Jimmy” C. Graham, 73, lifelong resident of Cleveland passed away peacefully at his home with his loving family at his side on Friday, March 25, 2022. He fought a brave battle with ALS. He served as a Medic with the US Army from 1969 until 1971. James was a graduate of Lee College (University) and was retired from Senior Insurance Solutions. He was a member of the Civitan Club and Optimist Club and had won Optimist of the year award in 1985. He was an educator and ordained minister and served at several churches throughout his life.  He attended Peerless Road Church.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles F. and Clura Gammill Graham; and brother, Leon Graham.

Survivors include his wife, Sandy Graham; children, Melissa Brown (Jerry) and Jimmy Graham (Dee); grandchildren: Abby Brown, Laney Brown, Henry Brown, Ella Graham, and Elin Graham; sisters, Norma Davis and Dallie Wyatt; brother, Edward Graham (Sonja); special cousin, Clarence Gammill; and several nieces and nephews.

The funeral will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, March 28, 2022 at Westwood Baptist Church with the Reverend Steve Smartt, Reverend Danny Smartt, Reverend Clarence Gammill and Chaplain David Smartt officiating. Interment will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 29, 2022 at Chattanooga National Cemetery with nephews, Chad Smartt, Christian Smartt, Wayne Thomason, Will Thomason, Tyler Greeson, and Nolan Davis serving as pallbearers. Scott Graham, Mike Plumley, Jacob Anderson, Mike Wooten, Erick Graham, and Chad Davis will serve as honorary pallbearers. The service will conclude with military honors.

His family will receive friends from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Monday at the church prior to the service.

The family suggests that memorials may be made to Operation Compassion, 114 Stuart Rd. NE, Cleveland, TN 37312

His family would like to thank Jim’s special caregivers, Jan, Jocelyn, and Mindie and also to Hospice of Chattanooga for their assistance.

We invite you to send a message of condolence and view the Graham family guestbook at www.fikefh.com