John Robert Graham Jr. of Daleville passed away peacefully on Friday, June 7, 2019, following a battle with cancer.
He was born on February 22, 1955, to John Robert Graham Sr. and Frances Hilt Graham Trent of Floyd, Va.
Survivors include children, Amy L. Graham (Rick Reeser, fiancé) and John (Jack) R. Graham III (Wang Xi); grandchild, Lydia Li Graham; former spouse, Carole S. Graham; sister, Rebecca G. Talbot (Matthew); nephew, Parker B. Talbot; stepsister, Julia T. Elliott (Dr. Charles); stepnephew/niece, Dr. Brian Elliott (Pam) and Virginia E. Frankel (Eric); extended family in Abingdon, Va.; lifelong friend, Allen Nester; and many close friends considered as family.
A native of Roanoke since childhood and a graduate of Patrick Henry High School and Hampton-Sydney College, John enjoyed a lengthy career in the insurance industry serving clients throughout Southwest Virginia. Throughout life, John had the innate ability to connect with the many people that he encountered, resulting in a multitude of close lifelong friendships.
With an avid interest in history, he participated in and held leadership roles with the Floyd and Botetourt County Historical Societies, Jubal A. Early Preservation Trust, Roanoke Civil War Round Table, and Sons of Confederate Veterans. John led efforts to place Virginia Civil War Trail signs in Botetourt, Franklin, and Floyd Counties. He also served Fincastle Presbyterian Church as a Deacon and Elder.
Some of his children’s fondest memories are leisurely drives (going well under the speed limit!) with no planned destination. With his children and grandchild in tow, John would point out landmarks and historical sites. From Amy and Jack, “We love you; we have learned from you and you will be greatly missed.”
The funeral service was held at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, June 11, at Cleveland Presbyterian Church, Abingdon. Burial followed in the Cleveland Presbyterian Church Cemetery. A service to celebrate John’s life will be announced at a future date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Fincastle Presbyterian Church, P.O. Box 144, Fincastle, 24090 or to the Christ Church – Radford, Building Fund, 6266 University Park Drive, Suite 2300, Radford, Va. 24141.
Arrangements by Oakey’s South Chapel (540) 989-3131. Online condolences may be expressed at www.oakeys.com.
