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Elmer Eugene “Gene” Graham Jr. passed peacefully on August 29, 2024. Gene lived 81 good years and was surrounded by the love of his family and dear friends throughout his battle with rapid progression ALS.
The oldest son of Elmer Eugene and Martha Albright Graham, Gene was born on May 8, 1943 in Salisbury where he grew up playing baseball, hunting and fishing with friends, many with whom he shared lifelong friendships. He attended Boyden High School and Salem Lutheran Church, and spent four years in the Air Force after graduating from Lenoir Rhyne College. He retired from the IRS in 2001 after 32 years of dedicated service.
Gene loved his family and enjoyed studying their lineage throughout Rowan County and beyond. He found joy in the small things like Sunday dinners with family, a ride through the countryside, shooting trap at the Wildlife Club with friends, an old doo-wop song on the radio, and a good dessert. He liked a good joke and loved helping people wherever he could. He was truly one of the good ones.
Gene is survived by his wife of 45 years, Marrianne Sharpe Graham; his two children, Meghan Graham Stamper (Jonathan) and Shawn Graham (Nathalie); his three grandchildren, Jacob, Nicholas and Madeline; and his brothers, Gary “Eddie” Graham (Patricia); and Kenneth Graham.
A graveside service will be held at the Salisbury National Cemetery, 501 Statesville Blvd., on Friday, September 6, 2024 beginning at 2pm.
Special thanks to the Atrium Charlotte ALS Clinic, the Salisbury VA ALS Clinic and Primary Care Team, Comfort Keepers Home Care, Centerwell Home Health, and the Glenn A Kiser Hospice House for their immeasurable support.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made through ALS.org to advance research for a cure.
Carolina Cremation is assisting the Graham family. Online condolences may be made at www.carolinacremation.com.
Patty Brown says
Thoughts and prayers to the family. May you always continue in life with the precious memories of Gene. God bless your family today and always.
Bill Nance says
Gene was one of the first people I met when I was reassigned to Salisbury upon returning from basic training with the Army Reserve in June 1972. We were both hired in June 1971, me to Wilmington, and Gene to Winston, but he lived in Salisbury, and badly wanted to be reassigned there. I suspect he was a little upset that I was reassigned right where he wanted to be, but he never said anything about it. Once we met we became good friends right away, playing tennis at the apartments where I then lived, and fishing at the Wildlife pond. He helped me move into the first house I bought in 1973. He was later able to be reassigned to Salisbury when Ralph Barker was promoted, and he moved to Winston from Salisbury. Gene, and Marianne helped us move to my current house on Hwy 601 in 1980 where I remain today. We worked side by side for over 25 years, and became friends on, and off the job. Gene was a great friend, and coworker, and I will miss reminiscing about our days as Revenue Officers. The greatest joy of his life was his daughter Meghan who he adored. She often called the office, and he was always available to talk to her no matter how busy he may have been. He was a great dad, and was just as happy, and proud when Meghan presented him with three grandchildren to love. Gene was just one of those guys who everyone immediately liked, and he will be missed by many. I am glad I came to have known him, and call him my friend.
Racine Douglas says
Sad to learn of your loss. Deepest sympathy to you and your family during this difficult time.
Gene Hudgins says
I met Gene many years ago during my younger years. He gave me great advice not only for my career, but life in general. I know he loved his family dearly. My condolences to his wife, children and family.
Harry Martin says
I got to know Gene through our time at IRS together. I only worked directly with Gene for a few years but respected him greatly, not only for how he went about his work, but for how he treated everyone he knew. He was genuine in everything he did and as likeable as anyone you will ever meet. I count it a privilege to have known Gene and shared in his journey. Rest in peace my friend.
Christine H Stamper says
Thought and Prayers to the Grahm family. Gene was a wonderful man so full of love and Kindness. I am blessed to have had him in my life as an incredible father-in-law to my son Jonathan. He will be missed..
Sharon Hoffman says
Thinking and praying for the family during this difficult time🙏🏻🙏🏻
Brenda Burns Morris says
Gene was a friend and classmate through eight years at J.F. Hurley School. He was always a good person who made friends easily. He will be missed by all who knew him. Condolences to his family. May he rest in peace!
Richard Woods says
I know Gene from meeting him at the Rowan County Wildlife Association trap and skeet range. I always enjoyed seeing him at the range. I don’t think I ever saw him without a smile on his face. Gene will be greatly missed by all us fellow trap and skeet shooters. He was a very good friend to us all.
Ruby says
We. Going. Miss. You.
Mr. Gene
Love. Fellow. Soldier