David James Graham

It is with broken hearts but an unwavering faith in the goodness of God that we announce the passing of David James "DJ" Graham, who went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Tuesday, August 27, 2024 at the age of 17. He was born on August 25, 2007 in New Castle, PA. He was the beloved son of James and Sarah (Knopp) Graham and cherished brother to Julia, Elizabeth, and Evan Graham.
DJ was known for giving the best hugs ever and never missed an opportunity to hug his family. He had a contagious laugh that got everyone around him laughing. He loved his family and had a very special bond with his cousin, Matt, and was also blessed with the greatest group of friends a guy could ever ask for.
DJ used to live in Mercer, PA and played little league baseball, basketball, and football. He was surrounded by wonderful friends and family there.
After moving to Shenango Township in New Castle, PA, DJ continued as an athlete and became a member of Shenango High School's varsity baseball team. He was voted "Rookie of the Year" in his sophomore season. He was also a first-time member of the school's golf team this year and earned a spot as a varsity starter. He also played club baseball for the 3B Barons at Cene Park in Ohio. He was an avid fisherman, and fished all around Mercer and Lawrence County to catch any bass that may reside there. He also fished competitively in PA High School Bassmaster tournaments with his cousin, Matthew Knopp. The two won the Western Division in 2023 and placed 5th in the state. He also volunteered in the children's ministry at City Church in New Castle.
DJ was preceded in death by his grandmother, Eva (Bober) Graham, as well as great-grandparents and other extended family members. In addition to his parents and siblings, DJ is survived by grandparents, David and Victoria Knopp, grandpa James Graham, Aunt Missy Popovich, Uncle David and Aunt Nicole Knopp, Uncle Curtis and Aunt Erica Graham, cousins Nathan, Matthew and Michael Knopp, and Emily and Joseph Popovich, and great grandma Joann Graham.
Visitation will be on Monday 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Ed & Don DeCarbo Funeral Home & Crematory, 941 S. Mill St.
Family and Friends will meet at City Church, 11 S. Mill St., New Castle, PA 16101 on Tuesday at 11:00 a.m. for the Funeral Service.
A Private Burial will take place at Parkside Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be offered to City Church, 11 S. Mill St. New Castle, PA 16101.