William Henry Graham

William Henry Graham passed peacefully on January 30th, 2026. Bill was born on January 6th, 1946 to Robert and Ruth Graham in Newark, NJ. He was raised in Union, NJ and was the oldest of four siblings. From a young age, Bill was a natural scholar, a dedicated son and sibling, and diligent worker taking on various jobs such as a paperboy, ice cream scooper, factory worker, and construction worker to contribute to his family. Bill received an academic scholarship to attend The Ohio State University where he played on the Lacrosse team and met many of his lifelong friends when he joined the brotherhood of Sigma Chi. Bill was a proud graduate of The Ohio State University and a passionate Buckeye fan.

After graduation Bill volunteered to serve in the U.S. Army, knowing that his service would likely involve serving in the Vietnam War. Following Airborne Jump School, on March 23, 1969, he married the love of his life, Lorry Majeski, whom he met at Union High School and who have been true life-partners ever since. Shortly afterwards, Bill was deployed to Vietnam, spending a year honorably leading his platoon in the jungle and became a decorated First Lieutenant of the 101 Airborne Division of the U.S. Army. Upon his return, Bill attended Rutgers Law School on the G.I. Bill and received his juris doctorate. He began his law career at Connell Foley LLC. Over time, he attended New York University to earn both an LLM for Trade Regulations and another in Corporate Law.

Lorry and Bill moved to Clinton, NJ where they cultivated a beautiful life as they raised their daughter, Alli. On the weekends Bill often coached Alli's community sports teams and was her steadfast supporter. In the summers he enjoyed quality time with his family and friends down the shore, first in Point Pleasant and then in Mantoloking, NJ. Bill was an avid runner, swimmer, and kayaker.

Bill spent the majority of his career at Bethlehem Steel Corporation, becoming General Counsel and Corporate Secretary before eventually returning as a partner in Connolly Foley LLC as he closed out his law career. He was revered for his moral and ethical approach, honesty, and impeccable work ethic. Bill's wisdom was sought after by colleagues and friends who valued his support, advice, and guidance.

He continued his commitment to the community by serving on numerous boards, including the YMCA and St. Luke's Hospital. His involvement with the American Bar Association saw him serve on multiple committees, further highlighting his dedication to the legal profession.

In retirement, Lorry and Bill moved to Rehoboth Beach, DE enjoying 10 years exploring the world, checking items of their "Ooo, I wanna take ya" list, as well as traveling to visit their longtime friends across the country and spending time at their CoOp in Manhattan. Bill was a true Renaissance man; a handyman and a Mr. Fix-it, he was also a self-taught artist and poet, using these creative mediums to express his observations, experiences, and sentiments about life, love, and the world around him.

Bill and Lorry recently moved to Long Branch, NJ. He took pleasure in days spent with Allison and Dwayne in Brooklyn, and especially time with his precious grandsons, Graham Henry and Charles Noah- playing games at the beach, sharing history lessons, teaching them interesting facts, playing sports, and teaching them lacrosse. While he had an illustrious career, his proudest accomplishments were his roles as husband, father, and grandfather.

Bill will be especially missed by his wife of 56 years, Lorry Majeski Graham, his loving daughter Allison Brown, son in law Dwayne, grandsons Graham and Charles, brother Jim Graham (Kim), sister in law Maryanne and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

He joins in peace his predeceased parents, Robert and Ruth Graham, his brother, Bob Graham, and his sister, Eileen Weist.

Bill's legacy is one of selflessness and support, always making time for his family and friends. He lived by the credo of treating everyone with respect and kindness. His was a life well-lived, full of purpose and love. William Henry Graham will be profoundly missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him. His spirit will endure in the hearts of his family, friends, and all the lives he touched.

Interment will be held privately at Brigadier General Doyle Veterans' Cemetery.

You are invited to leave a letter of condolence by selecting the Tribute/Guestbook link above.

The family requests that contributions in lieu of flowers and other sympathy expressions be made to Tunnel to Towers, Wounded Warrior Project, or any charity of your choosing.