George Graham

1934 - 2026

George Graham, a longtime resident of Longview, passed away January 23, 2026, at Somerset retirement center. He was 91.

George was born in Phoenix, Arizona on December 17, 1934 to George and Betty Graham. A sister, Karen was born in 1938. In 1940 the family moved to Kalama, Washington where George attended Kalama schools. He graduated from Kalama High school in 1952. A special time in his senior year, was the football team winning the State championship, his basketball team also placed 3rd in State.

George attended L.C.C. for a brief time before transferring to University of Washington where he studied pre-law. In 1957 he was drafted and served in the U.S Army as a special agent where he conducted security clearances.

George met and married Yvonne Bell in 1961, Yvonne had three daughters from a previous marriage Theresa, Denise and Laurel, George and Yvonne later adopted a son Nick. After 31 years of marriage Yvonne passed away in 1992.

In 2001 George purchased Ed Dixon realty in Kelso making and working with many lifelong friends over more than 52 years. It has been said that his handshake was his word! He was true, honest, and respected by all that knew him. He had a great sense of humor. George was never without a quick joking response. He always had a positive attitude in life he retired in 2012.

In 2009 George began dating widow June Pierce who became his longtime companion and best friend for life. They made many dancing trips to Dixieland festivals in the area and took cruises to the Bahamas and other vacation spots. They had a wonderful time going to dances and dinners at the Kelso Elks, where George was a member for 37 years.

George was also a faithful Kiwanis member, one year receiving the prestigious George E Hixon fellowship award.

George was a gambling man and his game was craps he loved rolling the dice! He made many trips to Las Vegas, Reno and other casinos. He came home with many winnings. He also enjoyed his weekly card games for many years with Al Smith and others. Every gambler knows the secret to surviving is to know what to throw away and what to keep. Every hand is a winner and every hand is a loser. In viewing the gamble of life George always said that the best you can hope for is to die in your sleep.

Survivors include son Nick Graham, and stepdaughter Theresa Faling both of Longview.

George also had one niece and two nephews Lisa Stephenson and Rick Weiler of Longview and Rob Weiler of Kalama. Other survivors include one great-niece five great nephews one great-great nephew Ryven.

Preceding George in death was his sister Karen Weiler of Longview. But no family member was closer to him than his companion June Pierce. She survives to honor his memory.

A celebration of life will be held at the Kelso Elks, on March 15, at 2:00 p.m.

In lieu of flower donations may be made to the Humane society