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James Graham Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for James Graham
Seattle
April 12, 2025
Remembering a truly remarkable person who brought so much joy to those around him. He was clever, kind, and endlessly witty-a light in every room he entered. His laughter and sharp humor made life more vibrant, and his kindness left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. Even years after his passing, his memory remains vivid and cherished, a testament to the impact he had on so many lives. Though our paths crossed for a number of years, his spirit and warmth will never be forgotten. Rest in peace.
G
April 12, 2023
Jim still comes to mind, and it's hard to image how such a bright light could no longer be in the world.
April 13, 2013
A long year without our dear sweet friend. Rest peacefully kind soul. Mich
Jim and his doggies in repose
November 11, 2012
G.
November 10, 2012
I knew Jim in college and for a few years afterward. Everything was more fun with Jim along. That laugh he had when he'd laugh so hard he couldn't catch his breath. The funny hijinks in college. I'm so very sorry.
Erika T
May 1, 2012
Carmen,
I learned the news today when I stopped by Javasti to grab a cup of coffee. Such sadness gripped my heart. I'll never forget laughing with you and Jim over Sophie's antics at the dog park. Jim was such a open caring person and I'll always remember him this way. Know that I am thinking of you.
Chelsea
May 1, 2012
I knew Jim through Javasti, where he stopped to get coffee every morning. Catching up with him and making his morning latte was a highlight of my shift. He was such a lovely, warm person. His positive outlook was contagious and I was all smiles after serving him each morning. He will be missed by the Seattle community.
Leslie Erickson
April 26, 2012
Jim was such a darling, possessed of a sharp, and sometimes caustic, wit that skewered me more than once as we grew up together, me being the elder sister of his dear friend, Erik. Although in recent years we only spent a few minutes together now and again when he would visit Napa, I cherished every single encounter. Funny how the loss of one who has always been there, even should years go by, leaves such a void. Jim, I love you. Thanks for making my baby brother giggle like a little girl! You were the only one who could.
Sue Connell
April 26, 2012
I only knew Jim from Javasti's Cafe but always looked forward to seeing him. He was so friendly and open and had the most amazing smile. I am so sorry for your loss and the loss to the world.
Susan & all your friends at East West
April 26, 2012
Dear Carmen,
So sorry for the loss of your beloved friend and husband. Reading the beautiful words of those who had the joy to know him gives a sense of what a warm and loving person he was- and what a radiant soul he is even now.
We prayed for you as a group during our staff meeting this week, and continue to send you loving thoughts and hold you in our prayers.
May your heart be comforted with peace.
rebecca kmitta
April 26, 2012
I worked with Jim for just three short years at Benson Hill, yet he wore himself on his sleeve and was easy to get to know. Him being the counselor and myself the psychologist, we worked on many difficult cases frequently together and shared offices next to each other. He instantly made me feel welcome, went out of his way daily to come in and visit me and tease me about my Celine Dion music....everytime he heard our secretary make a scream, he always yelled to me, "Is that Celine, again??" Jim had a strong foundation of mental health knowledge and had a way about him where he could explain the most difficult and sensitive of information to parents whose children were struggling with disorders. I always felt he'd make a wonderful clinical psychologist, yet last year his interest was in rethinking becoming a school psychologist again. I spent a lot of extra time with him, going over the nasp standards, updating him on the field, and requirements to become recertified. Anything Jim would chose to do with respect to working with children, he would excel in. I will always remember the poem he wrote where he uniquely dedicated each line and personalized it describing each staff member in our school and shared it over the intercom. I was always impressed that no matter what holiday came around, Jim would find a book to read to each class in the school and have students engage in some creative activity. When our district was told we could not celebrate Halloween, Jim visited each class with a Halloween story and had students carve pumpkins, calling it "cultural." Jim was not just your colleague, he was your friend. We engaged in countless conversations about John Stewart, who he loved, and he was always so funny mimicking Stewart and us exchanging dry witted political jokes. He had a smile larger than a mile and sweeter than the sun and his eyes expressed his genuine warmth. I am in shock and so saddened by his passing. The sun will shine less bright without him. Jim, "your mountain is waiting...so get on your way." Dr. Seuss......Know that you are in so many people's hearts and you made such a difference to so many in this life. Thank you. Your colleague and friend, Rebecca Kmitta
Ms. Ryan
April 25, 2012
Jim was the first person who (at least vocally) recognized how much I care about my students. If I remember correctly, he once told me that my attitude about my students was "AWESOME!" (and yes, capital letters were used...I can imagine him screaming this out). I will never forget how incredible that made me feel. He later told me that what he valued most in me was my heart and dedication to doing good for the people around me. Lessons like that will never be forgotten and I'm glad he taught me something about myself that I had been blind to. My students and I will miss him terribly but know he will live on forever in those he has so deeply touched. My heart goes out to all his friends and family during this time.
Mignon Graham
April 24, 2012
The glorious celebration of Jim's life will remain with me forever, just as the memory of Jim will always be alive in my soul. I am reminded every day of his big smile, his warm hug, his words of comfort and joy, the laughter which came so easily and spontaneously. I admired him and I loved him. I am so fortunate to have been his mother for a while and know his Seattle family. May he be at peace now with his mother and father, watching down on us all!
Susan (Burris) Conwell
April 23, 2012
I knew Jim when we were in high school and in the choir together. He was so loved by all of us, and for good reason. I want to share a funny story about him...we were in dress rehearsal for our production of "The King and I." We had been told that whatever happens, just keep going. A stage light came loose and crashed to the stage floor. Our two leads, Bill Suellau and Catherine Hodgkins (The King and Anna) were in the middle of a scene together. Thankfully, it didn't land near them, but it made an awful crashing sound. They both turned to look, then went right back to the scene. Meanwhile, Jim had grabbed a push broom and quietly swept it across the stage--one pass, didn't look up. We couldn't help but giggle in the house...it was adorable.
My heart is with all of you in his family who are mourning his loss, and to everyone whose lives he touched, which is a profound number I include myself in.
April 23, 2012
Very saddened to learn of Jimmy's tragic death. Were blessed to be part of Jimmy's life when he joined the Graham family and brought such happiness and joy to Barbara and John and Bobby and the family's many friends. Please accept our condolences. Jim & Pat Gibbany
Carrie, Mike, Christine, Aleyna & Craig
April 21, 2012
It is with a very heavy and sad heart that I write this, but hope these words and thoughts will be of some comfort to Mr. Graham's family and friends. Our family started Benson Hill shortly after Mr. Graham came on board. He comforted so many students, but especially my kids, when my father passed away. He helped us get through the hardest part of our lives. He was also there for the entire school any time there was a major crisis. Mr. Graham was there for every single student, teacher, staff member, parent, and administrator. He was our rock!
We turned to him for advice, marveled at his ability to interact with the kids, and wished we could emulate his passion for life. He was always surrounded by students, who absolutely loved him, as did the parents, teachers, and anyone else who met him. We will miss you, Mr. Graham. Thank you for all you have done.
Vanessa
April 21, 2012
You were a great counselor when i attended Benson Hill Elementary. Thanks for the graham crackers & your wise words. You will be greatly missed.
Bruce & Karrie Morlan
April 21, 2012
What a great gift to have been a part of Jim's life as his youth pastor in Napa. I'll always remember times in my office playing paper baseball, or throwing a football in the gym. Karrie and I are richer for knowing Jim.
Angela Wooten
April 21, 2012
We as a family our so priviledged to have known him and have him in our lives. I don't know how Kaelyn would have made it through school when Zach was in Iraq without him and me for that matter. I was so sad when we moved and changed schools because that meant we wouldn't see his bright sunny smile everyday. When Alysha started middle school at Nelsen we were so excited because we could see him again. He will be truley missed! We love you Mr Graham, so glad to know you are in Heaven with our one true Father. Our deepest condolences and prayers are with the family during this time. Wish we could be at the memorial tomorrow. Our thoughts are with the family and friends that will be there. I know he will be shining down on everyone. Zach,Angela,Kaelyn,Alysha and emily Wooten
Robin Stroben
April 20, 2012
My day was brightened when I walked into a school, saw Jim's smiling face, and heard his warm greeting. I'll miss him.
Rest in peace, Jim.
April 20, 2012
Jim, you will be missed. I remember the great conversations you and I had at Benson Hill. I also remember the time when you changed my flat tire in the parking lot while I was in class. You have enriched the lives of many students through the years - that is your true legacy. I will never forget your wit, sense of humor and that smile of yours. Rest in peace, my friend.
Pol Sembrano (Moscow, Russia)
April 20, 2012
A sparkling smile, a glowing heart, a contagious wit, an enormous compassion for children, friends and family. You were a gift to us all. We love and miss you, Jim. pj
Mary Lee LaBay
April 19, 2012
I am so sorry for your loss, Carmen. My heart goes out to you and your entire family. Many blessings.
savannah hanson
April 19, 2012
Carmen, my thoughts and prayers continue to go out to you and your son. Jim's spirit will live on through you both. May the road rise up to meet you as you continue to absorb this tragedy. Words fail me.
Megan Schwartz
April 19, 2012
I am deeply saddened by the passing of Mr. Graham. He was my councelor when I was in Elementary school at Benson Hill Elementary. I always went to talk to him. And he would always make my day better. He was a great guy. Full of happiness and a determination to make other people happy as well. we will all miss you Mr. Graham. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this very difficult time.
William Suellau
April 19, 2012
William Thomas Suellau
He was a friend and an example, when I sorely needed both. He didn't ever "witness" to or at me, but allowed me to witness a life filled with the Spirit, and made me want what he had. I am a better man for having known him - what better legacy than a world full of people he made better just by being in their lives?
I love you and will miss you always,
Your Friend, Will (Bill) Suellau
Carmen
April 19, 2012
Such amazing and heartfelt notes that have meant the world to us, (Jim's family). As we move through our deep grief and how very much we miss Jim, we hold these memories and words close to our hearts. Thank you.
Diane Hsu
April 19, 2012
Carmen and family, I am so sorry for your loss of your husband - a remarkable individual who made a loving difference in our world through his work with children. My deepest condolences to you and yours.
Brielle
April 19, 2012
I miss our counselor. :'( We won't have a 6th counselor for now. :T
Brandyn
April 19, 2012
I knew Jim since kindergarten he was my councilor from benson hill all the way up tO my 8th grade year and he helped me get through a lot of fought times when I was younger I am the person I am today because of Jim. I pray for everyone that knew him and his family. I will always remember Jim as a happy always lOoking out for others.
April 19, 2012
I was shocked by the news...Jim has always been the happy, smiling fun one..Jr. HIgh and High School was just that much better because of him. What a wonderful man he grew to be. His smile, encouragement and heart for others will truly be missed.
April 19, 2012
May God's peace uphold all of us who feel distressed by this loss. John and Harriet Nelson, Napa, Ca.
Shannon, John, Cameron & Ian MacGillivray
April 19, 2012
My two boys had Mr. Graham as their counselor since Kindergarten (they are in 7th & 8th grade) and his impact on their lives is immeasurable. My oldest child told me that what he remembers most about Mr. Graham is that he was always happy and that is how we will remember him. Prayers to all of his loved ones.
Mike Donoviel
April 18, 2012
So many memories of growing up in Napa include Jim (still Jimmy to me) -- from our tour through elementary school and junior high to countless weekends spent in each other's company. I had to smile a little when reading some of the comments others have written here, because it is clear that as an adult Jim touched and enriched the lives of many people, just as he did mine as a childhood friend. Thank you, Jim, you are greatly missed.
Deb Dohner (Dixon)
April 18, 2012
Faith~Hope~Love
Praying Jim's family, friends, students and colleagues will be comforted in their loss.
Jane Hasson
April 18, 2012
Jim,
You were my colleague, confidant, and friend. I will always cherish the times you reached out and touched me with your wisdom. You will be missed.
Diane Rademacher
April 18, 2012
Jim truly was a gift to all that knew him. He was compassionate, thoughtful, witty and brought joy when he entered a room. He is missed tremendously.
Karlin Campbell
April 18, 2012
Jim's passing has left an aching hole in so many hearts here in Napa. He shared the years at Browns Valley and Napa High with my sons, and became even closer as son Charlie's roommate at Seattle Pacific, providing some needed California sunshine and laughter. We love you and miss you so much, Jim.
Cheri Tanner
April 18, 2012
Jim, I will miss you. My life will forever be blessed knowing you were a part of it. May light and love surround you forever.
April 18, 2012
"Mr. Graham", as the kids called him, was responsible for some amazing progress in my son's educational and life development at Benson Hill. My son has continued to grow and that is testiment to Jim's life pursuit. We could never thank him enough. Cheryl, Ed, Casey and Elliot
Lisa Muller
April 18, 2012
I am deeply saddened at the passing of this wonderful man. I can't think of a time that I ever saw Jim, when he didn't have a smile on his face and a kind (usually humorous) thing to say.
He touched the lives of my daughters and many of their friends. Jim truly made a difference in the lives of many young people.
He will be missed and remembered always.
April 18, 2012
Jim, your family, friends, colleagues and students are in our thoughts and prayers. You touched our family, through the schools, by being your thoughtful, caring self, and your mentoring will be missed by parents and students alike; a great man has been taken far too soon.
Rest in peace, Mr. Graham.
The Saggersons
Adrienne DeBlasio
April 18, 2012
I am truly saddened by Jim's death. Jim was more than just a friend; he was an amazing person. He was always so kind and considerate. I always welcomed seeing him at every opportunity. His passing will not only leave a void in my life, but in the hearts of everyone who knew him. Jim's memory will always remain deep within my heart.
"If ever there is a tomorrow when we're not together. . . there is something you must always remember. You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think. But the most important thing is, if ever we're apart, I'll always be with you."
~Winne the Pooh
Steve Hinshaw
April 18, 2012
We will all miss you Jim. Thoughts and prayers to friends and family.
April 18, 2012
"Jimmy" as I knew him since Kindergarten at Browns Valley School, was such a compassionate man. My son Tony, who is in the Army has been deployed several times to the Middle East, Jimmy always had words of encouragement for me, also along With Ingrid, Trisha and a few other Browns Valley alumni all had fun conversations on Facebook. This world has lost a really great man.... Erin Dutra
Patricia Malone
April 18, 2012
Words are extremely hard, my heart extremely heavy. Knowing Jim from Benson Hill Elementary was truly a blessing and our kids, my son, will always cherish him - he touched and impacted many young lives. May you find comfort and peace knowing he is with our Lord. God Bless...
Lisa Thompson Wicker
April 18, 2012
The loss of Jim's life is a great loss for so many! Words are difficult as many memories keep entering my mind of Jim from Browns Valley Elementary all the way through Napa High. My prayers and thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
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