Jerrold Robert Graham

Jerrold Robert Graham, age 72, of Southgate, Michigan, passed away peacefully on November 18, 2024 in Taylor, Michigan.
Born to James Robert and Emily Mary (née Watson) on August 31, 1952 at Highland Park General Hospital, Jerrold was raised in Ferndale, Michigan. A proud graduate of Ferndale High School, Class of 1970, he went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree from Michigan State University in 1974, a Master of Public Administration from Oakland University in 1983, and a Juris Doctorate from Detroit College of Law in 1994.
Jerrold's career was defined by his dedication to public service. He served as a police officer with the Bloomfield Township Police Department for a decade before transitioning to city management, where he worked tirelessly for communities across southern Michigan. Later in life, he realized a long-held ambition by becoming a practicing attorney after being admitted to the State Bar of Michigan.
Jerrold was a devoted father to his sons, James R. Graham II, of San Diego, California, and Thomas J. Graham, stationed in Prague, Czech Republic. He took immense pride in their accomplishments, particularly their graduation from the Air Force Academy and West Point, reflecting his deep commitment to civic responsibility and public service.
Jerrold is also survived by his beloved grandchildren, Preston, James, Joseph, Atticus, and Venetia; his siblings, Judy A. Martin of Higgins Lake, Michigan, and James T. Graham of Bloomfield, Connecticut; and his former spouse, Kathleen Graham, who provided compassionate care during his final weeks. Jerrold was preceded in death by his parents, James R. and Emily M. Graham.
Jerrold will be remembered for his love of reading, barbecuing on warm summer afternoons, and enjoying the companionship of his cherished dogs, including Freckles, Taffy, Millie, and Helen.
A committal service will be held at White Chapel Memorial Park Cemetery in Troy, MI at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, December 17, 2024.
"What we have once enjoyed and deeply loved we can never lose, for all that we love deeply becomes a part of us." - Helen Keller