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1961 - 2020
1961 - 2020
Obituary
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James Anthony Graham, 59, passed away December 30, 2020 at his home. He was born March 7, 1961 to Phyllis and Gary Graham. He grew up in Sutherland and the family moved to North Platte when James started 8th grade. James became “Jim” in school attending in North Platte.
Jim was always an avid sports fan and talented athlete. He competed in baseball, basketball and football throughout his youth. He had an unbelievable memory for sports trivia. Jim was a faithful Oklahoma Sooner fan; his kids followed his dedication to the team.
Jim was a talented singer and often sang at weddings. He could play the piano by ear and enjoyed many family gatherings and singing together. He was in choir and sang in church as well. Many people called him Big Bird after his role in a junior high musical. Jim loved all kinds of music and could “name that tune” in a few notes.
Jim had a big heart and was incredibly funny. Jim was wicked smart and could recall just about anything. He left a lot of memories for his friends and family to share.
Jim graduated from North Platte High in 1979. He attended Kearney State College until returning to North Platte to work in food service. He lived in several states working a variety of jobs. Jim worked at Butch’s in Hershey for many years.
Jim married Denise Fisher in 1984 and to this union three children were born, Zachariah, Kyleigh and Shawn, he also gained a daughter Michelle. Jim and Denise divorced in 1990. Denise unexpectedly passed away in 1991. Jim raised the kids in Lincoln and then returned to Hershey for the kids to attend school.
Jim had a unique ability to build genuine, life-long relationships with so many people in the community and in restaurants and bars throughout his career. He taught so many people about resiliency and strength.
Jim is survived by sons, Zach of Gillette, WY, Shawn of North Platte; daughters, KyLeigh and Michelle of North Platte, Tina Moser of Cheyenne, WY; grandchildren, Denise, Anthony, Adrian, Noah, and Zane; siblings, Jenni (Mike) Benson of Lincoln, John Graham of Exeter; stepmother, LaRae Graham of North Platte. He was proceeded in death by his parents Phyllis Wait and Gary Graham; grandparents, Harry and Millie Graham, Reta and James Cobb. Jim is also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Online condolences may be shared at www.adamsswanson.com. A celebration of Jim’s life will be held in the spring of 2021.
Brenda Rosencrants Roberts
January 7, 2021
Always remembered his smile and laugh my prayers to the family
Jason Anderson
January 5, 2021
We had a few classes together, but the funnest one was choir! We drove Rouch crazy! He always called me Zac because at the time, Oklahoma had DB named Zac Henderson. Pretty sure that’s where son got his name. Can’t forget the dunk hoops at McDonald. Rest In Peace buddy!!!
Sam Kibler
January 5, 2021
Godspeed, my friend!
Rick Bryant
January 4, 2021
Always had a smile on his faces and great to joke around with and was always a competitor
RIP Jim
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Jeanne Rash
January 3, 2021
Heaven gained a sweet and hilarious soul. Rest easy, Jim.
Dan Reitz
January 3, 2021
Hit me hard. Best wishes for tranquility for the family. Dan
Sue Giglio Boyle
January 3, 2021
I remember Jim in choir and math classes. He was always so funny and smiling. Condolences to his family.
Cindi Niedan Hill
January 3, 2021
Jim was a classmate of mine. He was always kind and funny. He will be missed.
Connie Cronin
January 3, 2021
So sorry for your loss. Prayers for peace and comfort.
Cathy / Gilbert Hiatt
January 3, 2021
In loving memory of an awesome guy!! Jim always had a smile on his face regardless of what he might be battling. He made us laugh! He was a strong willed and humble man. Everyone was important to him even if he just met them! So thankful to have him as a friend. Thoughts and prayers go out to the family. God Bless.
Marcia Hinde
January 3, 2021
The guy with a smile for everyone! Is what I remember the most about Jim. Peace and Prayers to his family!
Pam Hoatson
January 3, 2021
I carry a special spot in my heart for Jim. We were both 19 and he was followiing me when I was envolved in a car accident. Not my fault but at that point it didn't matter. Jim pulled over and stayed with me until my Dad got there. What a gentleman he was. GOD BLESS YOU JIM. RIP.
Jay Wolfe
January 3, 2021
Blessings to you Jim hope your heaven stay is full of music and fun as you left us all with whole on this earth.
Traci Humphrey
January 3, 2021
Continued prayers. Jim was quite a guy, always had that ornery smile.
Karma & Lary Bomberger
January 1, 2021
His smile & laughter & his kindness will always be remembered. We'll see each other again, my friend. Love, hugs and prayers to Jenni & John and Jim's family.
Scott Emery
January 1, 2021
Rest In Peace Jim. So many great memories of our time together at Kearney State. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Graham family.
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421 W. 4th St., North Platte, NE 69101
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