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WILLIAM GRAHAM Obituary


  
WILLIAM H. GRAHAM  
On Tuesday, October 15, 2013 of Silver Spring, MD. Beloved husband of Mary Graham; father of Cathy (David) Mays, Carole (Michael) Lehan, Laura (Matthew) Fetters, Liz (Kevin) Parker; William (Connie), Michael (Mara), and Robert (Debbie) Graham. Also survived by 22 grandchildren. Visitation at St. John the Baptist Church, 12319 New Hampshire Avenue, Silver Spring, MD on Monday from 5 to 8 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial on Tuesday, October 22, 2013 at 10 a.m. Interment Gate of Heaven Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the William H. Graham, Scholarship Fund, The Catholic University of America, Washington, DC 20064 or The Olney Theatre, 2001 Olney-Sandy Spring Road, Olney, MD in his memory.www.COLLINSFUNERALHOME.com  

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Published by The Washington Post from Oct. 17 to Oct. 19, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for WILLIAM GRAHAM

Not sure what to say?





Lisa McKillop

October 11, 2024

Always remembered...a gentleman.

Carol Pearson

October 13, 2020

I know how hard this anniversary is. The first anniversary of my mother's death just passed. In the time leading up to the funeral Mass, you are busy. In the Orthodox Church, there's another service at the one year mark because it brings everyone together to share sorrow and to go on.
I remember Bill Graham's funeral Mass well. The church was lit up and bright. His children and some grandchildren actively participated in the service. His sons, at times, looked at their mother and spoke directly to her. I wasn't sure how she could go on, but she did.
Bill's faith was rock steady. It guided him through life. He is guiding you from heaven. I am grateful for having gotten to know him. He loved performing. He valued acting. The piece of advice he gave me that I have never forgotten is if you wait until you are ready to do something, you will never do it. Good advice.

Mary Francina Golden

October 11, 2020

I loved Bill Graham. I E eiv d my MFA from Catholic U in 1973, and for the 3 years preceding, I had the privilege of being taught by this generous, caring, humor-filled man. The world is a lesser place for his leaving it.

Lisa McKillop

October 11, 2020

I still miss Bill. I have the coffee mug that was given to me upon his retirement from the Catholic University Drama Department. Although the imprint on the ceramic mug has faded, my memory of Bill never will.

Carol Pearson

October 15, 2019

I can't believe a year has passed. He was such an inspiration. I remember his funeral Mass and marveled at how talented his children were in so many aspects of performing arts. They had it in their genes. Father Hartke talked about how Bill refused to sign on to a major movie house because he didn't want to raise his children in Hollywood. He had wonderful values and wanted to impart them to his children. He also imparted them to his students.

Lisa McKillop

October 11, 2019

I loved Bill, Sr. He always stopped to say Hello to me, and to thank both me and any volunteers in the building. Bill genuinely loved the community and appreciated the effort of Friends of Olney Theatre. I miss him....

The Royal Grahams

Noelle Wille

October 11, 2019

A gentleman of dignity, faith, integrity, wit and wisdom. Together with Mary held forever in my heart.

Rev. Alexei Michalenko

October 28, 2013

Dear Mary and Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you. Bill was one of the professors in my Homiletics class at CUA and I treasure not only what he taught but his style of presentation. God grant him Memory Eternal!!

Jill Kamp Melton

Jill Melton

October 27, 2013

I am so sorry to hear about this. I was out of town for this week and so I missed it. Please give Mary my love. I always enjoyed our conversations.
I will pray for all of you because I know you will all miss him and his presence.
I will always remember how much he believed in me and gave me the opportunity to work at CUA for 5 years. I was blessed.
Love also to Liz who was in my class.

Wesley & Betsty (Crowe)Bishop

Wesley Bishop

October 26, 2013

Bill Graham taught me that Shakespeare was meant to be performed. There was music in what he taught me, and there was always integrity burning within the man. I am enriched because of knowing him and a little emptier because of his passing.

October 25, 2013

Rene Codelka sends her sympathies to Mary and the family.
She is out of town and regrets that she had to miss the ritual
of the viewing and the Mass.

She sends her admiration and love to all.

Mary Ann Cashman-McGure

Ruth Ragsdale

October 25, 2013

Carol,
Sorry to hear about your dad. No matter how old we are when we lose our parnets it is hard. Even thought we know they are in a better place. You and your family are in my prays.

Adam Huie

October 22, 2013

The little I knew of him had impacted me. He taught some of my class mates and I helpful aspects in learning acting/drama. But he ultimately had a heart for the lord that showed in his love for others. Blessings to the Graham family!

Kenneth Kimmins

October 22, 2013

My love and prayers to Mary and the Graham brood. Bill's influence began with the first class I took with him and has lasted for fifty years-thus far. When Bernie McInerney gave me the sad news, I called to tell Dave Little and he said " do the show tonight for Bill" and that I did. And I will always invoke him with every performance I do for the rest of my career. After all, without him and his loving, spiritual approach to the work, I'd have given up long ago. "Bill and Mary" lives to imitate, to celebrate and to remember. May Perpetual Light Shine Upon Him. God Bless, Ken

Marty & Barbara Foye

October 22, 2013

Dear Mary and Family: please accept our deepest condolences for your monumental loss. Bill (and you, Mary) has been an exemplary model of what it means to be a Catholic Christian. Sadly, it was not till 10/22 that we learned of Bill's passing and funeral; otherwise, we'd have made the drive from PA, where we're temporarily living till our new home is ready in Lewes, DE. May the Lord & His Blessed Mother comfort you. With love and prayers,

Myra Warren

October 22, 2013

We here at MBA would like to express our deepest sympathy to the Graham Family.

Charlie Abel

October 22, 2013

I am so grateful to have known Mr. Graham and his wonderful family. I am somewhat at a loss for words but sending love to all.

October 22, 2013

To Mary and all in Bill's family: my sympathy & prayers. You do not need me to tell you what a fine gentleman Bill was to all he encountered. I so enjoyed working with him over many years at CUA. His special legacy will live on.

Michael & Teresa Thomas

October 22, 2013

We are deeply saddened for your loss. Much love and prayers for you all during this time of sorrow. -- The Thomas Family

Robert Biedermann

October 22, 2013

Dear Dr. Graham, I am addressing this note to you because I know you are reading it as I write it. You were the true inspiration at Catholic University for my becoming an Actor for the past 34 years. You taught me to be true to the character and always speak from the heart. You taught me how to improvise when necessary keeping truth in the story and you were always the one person on earth who made me nervous when you came to see me in plays through all those years; the only person. And now you make me even more nervous because now I know you will be watching every performance of mine from just a different seat in the house! I am sad you are not in this Theatre any more but I am sure there are a lot of Actors up there in your new Theatre who can use your passion and inspiration. I will always think of you as the person who found my passion in me. Make sure you take notes so I can read them when I join you Backstage. Missing you, Robert John Biedermann

Fr Jesmond Micallef, House of Mary, Ephesus, before saying a Mass for Mr Graham

Jeff Kelly

October 21, 2013

Fr Jesmond Micallef OFM Capuchin Community, will say a special Mass for Mr Graham on Tuesday, 10/22, at the House of the Virgin Mary in Ephesus, Turkey, declared a Holy Place by Pope John XXIII. Jeff Kelly

Barbara Talbot

October 21, 2013

Bob and I offer our deepest sympathies to to the Graham family.Bill was a most memorable teacher in 1962 when I first came to CU and a valuable friend for the last 50 years. He will be missed by allwho knewhim and his a amazing talents.

Terrence Sherman

October 21, 2013

Bill Graham was the first drama teacher I encountered at Catholic University and I'm sorry Father, Joe, James D, Leo, Gary, Mr. Waters, Warren and Mark - all of you were excellent but Bill spoiled me. Don't feel too badly though, years later when I became a college professor of theatre myself, I tried my hardest to imitate Bill in the classroom but I never could match his dedication, his humor, his generosity and his overwhelming charm. I smile whenever I think of the man. My best thoughts go out to you, Mary and Cathy, and the the rest of your family.

Judith Reagan

October 21, 2013

I remember Bill vividly - and it's been forty years. Funny, and high-energy, with integrity to spare. His support and love for his actual family somehow extended to students and to the whole CU department. No mean feat, that!

Lynne Wintersteller-McGrath

October 21, 2013

My deepest sympathies to the Graham Family (especially Carole & Bill). I remember such a distinguished tall intelligent highly respected teacher & father. Prayers of comfort & peace be with you all. God Bless!

Brian Milli

October 21, 2013

Prayers for a wonderful and kind man. It is an honor to have known him.

Mary Zastrow

October 21, 2013

My memories of Mr. Graham go way back, back to the days of our first house in Oakview, Maryland when the whole Graham family would pay us a visit. Mr. and Mrs. Graham were always so kind and generous towards us, even in the midst of raising their own troupe of children. Each one of you children, Kathy, Dave, Michael, Robert, Carole, Laura, and Liz, was indelibly marked with your dad's amiable smile, gracious manner, and talent for making people laugh. How kind the Lord was to allow us to be your neighbors in White Oak.

It was your dear father's devoted friendship toward my dad that linked us together.
He called your dad the longest lasting friend of his entire life. What a great man your dad/husband was.

Mrs. Graham, my heart goes out to you. You taught me what it meant to be steadfast and true to the man you loved.

May God comfort you and hold you close. I send you all my deepest sympathy and love.

Mary (Rodgers) Zastrow

October 21, 2013

My memories of Mr. Graham go way back, back to the days of our first house in Oakview, Maryland when the whole Graham family would pay us a visit. Mr. and Mrs. Graham were always so kind and generous towards us, even in the midst of raising their own troupe of children. Each one of you children, Kathy, Dave, Michael, Robert, Carole, Laura, and Liz, was indelibly marked with your dad's amiable smile, gracious manner, and talent for making people laugh. How kind the Lord was to allow us to be your neighbors in White Oak.

It was your dear father's devoted friendship toward my dad that linked us together.
He called your dad the longest lasting friend of his entire life. What a great man your dad/husband was.

Mrs. Graham, my heart goes out to you. You taught me what it meant to be steadfast and true to the man you loved.

May God comfort you and hold you close. I send you all my deepest sympathy and love.

Mary (Rodgers) Zastrow

James Shanklin

October 20, 2013

Mr. Bill Graham is one of the finest men I have ever met. I will forever remember what he taught me. I think of him and his advice with nearly every character I work on. Mr. Graham was always spot on. Most of all, I will remember his smile, laughter and how much I enjoyed and respected our conversations and just being in his company. I am a better actor and a better person for knowing him. Mr. Graham, you and your family are in my prayers. I have no doubt you are feeling God's peace and loving arms around you. You are also surrounded by the loving embrace of all the students who's lives and talents you so generously enhanced. Peace be with you, dear Mr. Graham and may your entire family feel comfort through your peace.

Rick Wade

October 20, 2013

I only met Mr. Graham once ... I tried to get into CU because I wanted to learn from him. I worked with his daughter,
Cathy, in theatre. But wherever one turned in Washington theatre, there was the footprint of Bill Graham ... in wonderful productions, in inspired actors, directors, designers and others who fell under his spell. So many are so thankful for his life and love of the art of theatre ... I am proud to be among them.

Rick Wade

Sheila Ihde Murawski

October 20, 2013

So many happy memories of my days (in the 60's) in Bill's classes, working with him (and Molly!) briefly at Olney, and then occasionally running into him over the years. I remember attending a performance by the Synectic Theatre group; Bill was listed in their program as "the Voice of God" -- how absolutely perfect! The passing of this beloved man for all seasons is truly the end of an era.

Michael Caldwell CU Drama '68, CU Law '71

October 20, 2013

Mr Graham was the most wonderful teacher that I ever had in CU's Drama Department. My happiest memories were in his classes. That beautiful rich voice if his was always my inspiration and example. His dignity and quiet confidence made one want to imitate him. And I have tried to do just that. When God speaks to me in my mind I have always heard Him in Bill Graham's voice. When I speak to juries, or judges, or students I always try to sound like Bill Graham. His heart was huge. His impact on others enormous. His humility and holiness inspirational. Thank you Bill Graham. God bless your wonderful family.

Anne Stone

October 20, 2013

Mr. Graham was a marvelous mentor, teacher and friend. In class, he would keep shouting “What?” until he heard, and we found, the real meaning of our lines. At Olney, he would drop into rehearsals to offer support and advice without interfering. He was always available to offer friendly counsel. Just like the energizer bunny, he kept going and going: he and Mary were there for the recent National Players' 65th reunion! Thank you for your generous spirit that touched so many lives. Sending love and prayers to Mary and your wonderful family. Peace be with you all.

Noelle Wille

October 19, 2013

The most beautiful family I will ever see. They will have tears, joy and laughter into perpetuity. What a gift.

Patricia & John Young

October 19, 2013

Dear Mary, you and Bill have been such wonderful neighbors and members at St. John the Baptist community. We will miss him, especially at Mass, as a lector. God bless his soul.God bless all of you in the Graham family.

Liz Brady

October 19, 2013

Mr. Graham was a wonderful, kind man, who never hesitated to help me each semester with my financial assistance, when I returned to CUA in 1986 to finish my degree in Fine Art. What a truly thoughtful man. Much appreciation to you, Mr. Graham. May you rest in peace.

Albert Ihde

October 19, 2013

Since 1964, I have been fortunate to have had Bill play many important roles in my life and he was a role model for me in each and every one.

Boss: Bill signed my contract at Olney as an Intern for $25 a week and I learned by watching him that it is possible to keep your head while everyone around you is losing theirs.
Teacher: In Bill's undergraduate Acting class I saw how patience and commitment could help students with a wide range of abilities and talent.
Director: The requirement to audition at least once forced Bill to cast me in a small role in Richard II, and I learned how he was able to coax a performance from anyone.
Co-Worker: With the Hartke Theatre Conservatory, I had the honor to serve on the faculty and team teach with Bill and others.
Advisor: After leaving CUA and venturing off to NY and LA, I stayed in touch, and Bill always responded when I sought his trusted advise.

I am but one of the countless thousands whose lives have benefited immeasurably because we have known Bill and have been inspired by his good work.

I can still hear his voice, and I will never forget him. His wit and wisdom will be missed.

Thank you, Bill.

October 19, 2013

Bill and Mary 50th Wedding Anniversary

October 19, 2013

Alexander Christmas Party 2003

October 19, 2013

Joe Clancy

October 18, 2013

"Give yourself permission to
be a 10 out 10."

He was one out of a million.

A true man of the theatre with his hand always out for the welcome no matter how many times it got knocked away in different ways.

Sending care. Regards to Carole.

Peace,
Joe Clancy,
aka Hamilton Clancy
former student
class of '84

Lisa McKillop

October 18, 2013

Truly a man for all seasons. Always a gentleman and always appreciative of the work of those who volunteered and promoted OTC. We loved him dearly and he will be missed.

October 18, 2013

Uncle Bill was a wonderful person. I have very fond memories of him.....Bill Alexander

I have only known Uncle Bill for a few years and there was never a time I saw him that he didn't have a smile on his face. Such a lovely person....
Liz Alexander

Phyllis Bottegal

October 18, 2013

Your light will shine forever your smile is so wonderful. Thank you for your wisdom!

Anita and Bill Bell

October 18, 2013

I was fortunate enough to be Bill's Administrative Assistant for a period of years. What a thrill it was each day to see and hear him with his wonderful students and faculty. He was an inspiration to me and my family -- he will always be remembered calling our home and saying "Bill Graham here" in that wonderful baritone voice. God bless him and all the Graham's -- and his dear Mary. We will remember all the Graham's... Much love to all

Delores Williams

October 18, 2013

Dear Carole,

My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. Your father was always so kind and inspiring. He touched and enriched many many lives and his legacy will continue because he made us all feel like we could and must "give ourselves permission" to go for it. Wishing you and your family peace and comfort. Be blessed.

Anita and Bill Bell

October 18, 2013

I had the great privilege of being Bill's "Admin Assistant" for 3.5 years...what a thrill it was for me and my family. We have kept in touch now since I retired, and I so looked forward to hearing his wonderful voice on the phone say, "Bill Graham here." Our family loved him -- we will miss him terribly. Mary, and your wonderful kids, know that he is safe and teaching and directing all up there now. God bless all the Graham family. Much much love.

Carol Pearson

October 18, 2013

Bill Graham taught us to be honest in our acting, to work together, and never to wait until we felt we were ready to take on a challenge. I saw him practice these same qualities in the years I spent in the drama department. He made the effort to understand other people's perspectives and emotions and through that understanding he helped bridge the gap of discord. He always worked for the good of the theater department, the project, and the people involved. He was a truly gifted man who shared his gifts with all.

Richard Warner

October 18, 2013

I've been training actors for 30 years. Every time I walk into a classroom Bill is there with me as my source of inspiration and the gentle, positive, confident model for my approach to the work. My life-long mentor.

Laura Kane

October 18, 2013

My love and prayers go out to the entire Graham family.

National Players Tour 43

B.Michael McFarland

October 18, 2013

There are people you meet in life who are such a presence, so transformational, so inspirational that you never think of them as mortal until you are reminded they are. Mr. Graham may have left us but he was so dear, so special, so remembered by so many that his spirit and his name will go forward for many years to come. My deepest condolences to Mrs. Graham, his children, his grandchildren, and all who will miss this giant among men.

Lynda Rutherford

October 18, 2013

Carole,
Sending my condolences to you and your family. You're in my thoughts and prayers during this time of celebration.

Pat Hayes

October 18, 2013

Our parents, Mary and John Rieger, knew Bill from the mid 50's when Father Hartke designated them the official "sticky buns and coffee" brigade for late night rehearsals at the theater. We'd always be excited about seeing Bill perform. Fast forward a few years--Ann, the youngest Rieger, attended the 75th anniversary celebration earlier this at CU with Mary Jo Santo Pietro and was delighted to see Bill and Mary again.
On behalf of all the Riegers, we send our condolences and prayers to Mary and the family.
Fondly,
Pat (Rieger) Hayes, Ann and Paul Rieger

Rick Inguanti

October 18, 2013

Prayers and condolences go out to all the Graham family. Mr. Graham was truly a great man. I'm so happy to have known him and learned from him.

October 18, 2013

To Mary and family: Our sincere sympathy and prayers are with you.
Weedie and Dave Drittler

Martin Brady

October 18, 2013

Back in the days when all things religious seemed to mean a little more, Bill was my designated godfather. He struck me as always kind, and I wish I'd known him better. His legacy is something to look toward as an example for all: sincerely held Christian values, devotion to faith, and a model for the committed marriage and dedication to family and fatherhood. Bill's success as teacher, artist and administrator was estimable, but I always marveled most at his personal success. God bless his beautiful family.

Wally and Kate Schwartz

October 18, 2013

Bill Graham , Sr., a great role model, teacher, friend and person, in college, theatre, and in life; my life is richer for having known him. Take your deserved rest. Love and thanks to Mary and "all the little Graham's.

Michael Burgtorf

October 18, 2013

My deepest condolences to the Graham family. In the short time I knew him, Mr. Graham was a truly inspiring man to me. I only wish I had known him longer. His love, passion, and legacy will undoubtedly last indefinitely in my heart.

Michael Rothhaar

October 18, 2013

I extend my deepest sympathies to the Graham family on Bill's passing. He was a truly great man and a true man of the theatre. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

Paul Gebhardt

October 18, 2013

To paraphrase a line from one of the classics...A life is not judged by how much you love; but by how much you are loved by others". You are now and always will be loved and missed by all of us.

John & Mary Holt

October 18, 2013

Our deepest condolences go out to Liz, Kevin and the entire Graham family. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Jozie Emmerich

October 18, 2013

My heartfelt sympathy and prayers for dear Mary and all the familly. I imagine a great reunion with Father Hartke, Jim, Leo, Joe, Ed, Don, Ada
Mae, Charlie, and Dr. Josie Callan must
be deafening the ears of heaven!

Diana Fooksman

October 18, 2013

I first met Mr. Graham in 2003 when I started working at Olney Theatre as an apprentice with the National Players, helping out in the office to plan the tour, and then later, I worked with Mr. Graham from 2006-2009 as GM of Players.

There was never a kinder man with a more giving spirit. He was an active advocate for the arts, and especially for National Players and inspired, within me, that same love and devotion to Players.

He was a teacher of theatre, but also of life, constantly reminding those he spoke with to give themselves permission, to tell the story, to go without fear.

An amazing man who will be missed by thousands.
My deepest condolences to Mary and the entire Graham family.

MaryBeth Wise

October 18, 2013

My deepest condolences are with Mrs. Graham and the entire Graham family. Bill Graham- a gentle man, an insightful teacher, one who helped me believe that anything was possible with faith and commitment. Thank you Mr. Graham for your lessons that have served so well in life and in the work. "Give yourself permission!" "Fire in the belly!" "Risk being boring!" Your spirit is on every stage trod by every actor/teacher/dramaturg/director/designer/ religious you taught! What a gift!

Mary Francina Golden

October 18, 2013

Mr. Graham was my teacher at C.U. in the MFA program in the early 70's. (And here I am, still calling him Mr. Graham!) I just loved him! He was compassionate, witty, and a wonderful raconteur, not to mention a gifted teacher. My favorite story of his was this: One day, in winter, he came across Father Hartke, in full French mode, as was his wont - black beret, neck scarf, black turtleneck. So Mr. Graham looked him full in the face and said,"How are things in the Resistance, Gil?" I still think it's hilarious.
My love and sympathy goes out to his family, of whom he was very proud.

Peggy Yates

October 17, 2013

He was the most generous of teachers. He asked the best questions and inspired commitment and passion. I quote him often and will miss him dearly. My heart goes out to all the Graham Family. Sending love and comfort to you all.

Mary Ann & Mickey McGuire

October 17, 2013

Bill was in our thoughts and stories on Tue lunch at St. Paul's College in DC. I was sharing an old Acting Class story about how Mr. Graham (1960) conducted his real-life class. There was a student up in front in the little theatre, stage center, and as the student began the monologue, Bill turned away and said, "I am going to walk down the aisle and out that door unless you can use your voice to get me to turn around and come back." So many vivid memories and so much collegiality in our S&D Department. Mary, you and all your family are in our thoughts and prayers. God knows that Bill doesn't need them anymore.
God bless you all as you adjust to life without him. For the rest of us, he will always live in our memories and in our hearts.

Mary Ann and Mickey McGuire

Lisa Tumulty Peklo

October 17, 2013

A man among men. I like to think that he is in heaven sharing tales of the good old days with my Dad Joe Tumulty. Blessings to the entire Graham family on this profound loss.

Phyllis Brala-Bottegal

October 17, 2013

When Bill Graham spoke he captured everyone and he could tell a wonderful story . He listened to me, when I need him. You will be so missed. Thank you for everything. I was Blessed.
Phyllis Brala Bottegal

Jon Palmer Claridge

October 17, 2013

You reap what you sow . . . the seeds sown by Bill Graham insure an eternal legacy in the world of theatre. and to mix my metaphors, the ripples of his teaching will continue far and wide. I'll always remember his immense talent, but even that was eclipsed by his generosity of spirit. I wish the Graham (and CUA Drama) family grace and strength in their grief

Stella Roberts

October 17, 2013

Mr. Graham was one of the most generous men I had the privilege to meet at CUA. Our prayers and love go out to all of the Graham family. God Bless you.

Bernie McInerney

October 17, 2013

Bill Graham has been a force in my life since my first acting class with him in '59. I will miss him greatly. My prayers are with his sweet wife Mary and their family.

Gail Beach

October 17, 2013

He brought me into the department,first through National Players and then as a member of the staff.He trusted me and helped me grow with the faculty as we transitioned from the department's roots to the next generation of artists and teachers.While I was Chair, I often got a phone call that was just to let me know he enjoyed something I'd written or said, or maybe just to let me know about an alum who wanted to connect. He never really left this place, and was integral in helping make our 75th amazing.I'll miss the booming baritone.

Daniel Brady

October 17, 2013

Even as Leo Brady's child I remember his great voice...

Tony Elliot

October 17, 2013

I learned many lessons from Mr. Graham during my time with the theatre program at CU. He was a wonderfully generous and caring man. The entire family is in my prayers. Thank you for sharing Mr. Graham with countless students.

Patricia Funderburk Ware

October 17, 2013

It is so difficult to express the impact Mr. Graham had on my life and the depth of respect and admiration I have for him. Thank God for giving the world this amazing man. My love to his leading lady, Mrs. Graham, and their wonderful children. You are in my prayers.

Marvin Goldman

October 17, 2013

We who are left behind grieve tremendously, but take comfort in the knowledge that God will have the priveledge of finally knowing you face to face.

Wonderful day at Olney with Bill, Mary and Marvin Goldman, 9/6/2013.

Noelle Wille

October 17, 2013

Dennis & Kecia Kane

October 17, 2013

A great man who, in his final curtain call, left a loving family and many friends to carry on his legacy. We are all very fortunate to have had the opportunity to know him - as each of us is better for it. Our prayers and condolences go out to Liz, Kevin and the entire Graham cast of actors, singers, screenwriters, speakers. Peace be with you all.

Monica (Brady) Wells

October 17, 2013

My deepest condolences to all the Grahams. Thanks for Bill's great contributions to the theater and friendship to my father and our family.

Monica Wells

October 17, 2013

I really appreciate all Bill's contributions to the theater and his friendship with my father. My deepest condolences to all the Grahams.

Brian Cohn

October 17, 2013

Albert Einstein once said, "Our death is not an end if we can live on in our children and the younger generation. For they are us, our bodies are only wilted leaves on the tree of life."
With the beautiful legacy your father left behind, I know that he will on for a very, very long time......

Brigid Brady Witkowski

October 17, 2013

From Brigid Brady & Richard Witkowski in NYC. Our sympathies to the entire, amazing Graham family. His was a life well-lived. We will always remember him.

Claire Panke

October 17, 2013

Thinking of you Laura, your entire family and your father. What beautiful expressions of love, honor, dignity and devotion you have expressed during the past few weeks. Sending prayers and support to all of you.

Bruce Strachan

October 17, 2013

Have been thinking so much of all of you these past several days - hoping you are also able to embrace moments of joy and thanks for the blessed life, which you are testament to.

Judy, Michael and Rachel Abrams

October 17, 2013

A wonderful legacy left behind by a phenomenal man. He will be missed and remembered forever. Much love to all of the Graham family.

Noelle Wille

October 17, 2013

Your love and laughter will remain forever in out hearts, your beloved Mary and family forever in our prayers. RIP lovely man. Well done.

Mary Del Bianco

October 17, 2013

One of the nicest, kindest creative forces in the DC area. A gentle soul who can now rest in peace with the God he so loved.

Lacetta Bowman

October 17, 2013

My prayers go out you Laura and your family. We go back from high school and I remember the nice man that your father was. Stay blessed

William and Patricia May

October 17, 2013

I (Bill May) knew Bill when I taught at The Catholic University of America and my wife (Pat) and I loved to go to the Hartke theatre when he directed plays there and then to the Olney theatre in upper Montgomery Co. that he founded. I also got to know him and Mary as superb teachers of persons who wished to be lectors at Mass, and deeply appreciated the service he and Mary gave to the Church. He was a great gentleman, a great teacher, a man with a wonderful sense of humor, of the dramatic, of God and fellow men. May he rest in peace.

Carol & Mike Tilford

October 17, 2013

It's a wonderful life.

Suzanne (Friedman) Moss

October 17, 2013

What a legacy this wonderful man left! My condolences go out to everyone he touched.

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Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

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Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

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Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

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How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

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The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

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Ways to honor WILLIAM GRAHAM's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

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How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

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How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

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