Jimmy L. Graham

1932 - 2009

ODESSA Jimmy L. Graham died peacefully at home April 30, 2009, from complications of ALS.

At his side were his wife of 48 years, Juan Dean Graham and his loving daughter, DeeDee Thompson. Jimmy was born May 9, 1932, in Pecos, Texas, to Frank and Pauline Graham.

Jimmy chose service to his community as a lifetime career. He began that service aboard the U.S. Navy Destroyer Power during the Korean War. Upon completion of his military service, Jimmy embarked on a career in law enforcement as a highway patrol officer with the Texas Department of Public Safety. His law enforcement career included positions with the cities of Abilene, Port Lavaca and Belton, Texas. Jimmy's last official duties were as a Narcotics Detective in San Diego, California.

Jimmy and Juan returned to Texas in 1966, and he became a letter carrier for the U.S. Postal Service until his retirement in 1992.

Jimmy married Juan Dean Lewers on January 11, 1961, and together they raised a family of seven children; thirteen grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

He is survived by his sons, Frank Graham and wife, Debbie of Teague, Texas, Paul Graham and wife, Robin of San Angelo, Don Graham and wife, Julie of Odessa; daughters, Kathy Choate and husband, C.B. of Odessa, Linda Anderson of Raleigh, North Carolina, Juan Neves and husband, Johnny Frizzell of Austin, and DeeDee Thompson and husband, Dennis of Odessa; thirteen grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

Mr. Graham was preceded in death by his parents; his twin sister, Virginia Wright; and sister, Sue Graham.

Jimmy's legacy is the example he set as a husband and a father. He led by his example of hard work, loyalty, respect for others, and personal responsibility. His family was the most important thing in his life. The word love was easily spoken, often used, and will be the part of Jimmy that will live on in his family.

A Memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. on Monday, May 4, 2009, at Hubbard-Kelly Chapel with Rev. Jimmy Braswell officiating.
Services are entrusted to Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Home.