Dr. Jimmy Graham

1949 - 2025

Dr. Jimmy Graham was born on January 14, 1949, in Atlanta, Georgia, to the late Luther Jerome Graham Sr. and Dorothy Louise Graham. As the eldest of eight siblings, Jimmy naturally stepped into a role of leadership and care from an early age-qualities that would define his life's work.

A graduate of Luther Judson Price High School in 1967, Jimmy went on to earn his undergraduate degree from Emory University in 1971. He pursued his passion for medicine at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, graduating in 1975. He then returned to Emory University Affiliated Hospitals, where he completed his internship, residency, and fellowship by 1979.

As a dedicated Internist and Rheumatologist, he developed a deep interest in nutrition and preventive care. In 1980, as a private physician he established a clinic, Graham Central Station which later became Graham Medical Center, believing firmly that the best way to treat disease was to prevent it.

In addition to his belief in prevention, Dr. Graham also believed that laughter was good for the body and soul. His teachings were not only insightful but often filled with humor

-he had a way of making you laugh while learning, and his joy was contagious. He was also known for his straightforward bedside manner-he spoke the truth, didn't believe in sugarcoating the consequences of unhealthy choices, but his honesty was always rooted in a deep desire to see people live their best, healthiest lives - physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

In 2002, he wrote and published "52 Weeks: A Physician's Guide to Weight Management and Health," a book that reflected his passion for helping others live healthier, more balanced lives.

He was an active member of the Arthritis and Lupus Foundations, the Georgia Rheumatism Society, and the Christian Medical Society. He also served his country with honor as a Commander in the United States Naval Reserve.

In 1988, Dr. Graham founded the Church of Acts, a Full Gospel Church, where he served faithfully as Senior Pastor. His dual calling as both a physician and a pastor allowed him to minister to the whole person-body, mind, and spirit. He was a strong supporter of various ministries that were vital and instrumental in nurturing holistic growth. His teachings, often peppered with his signature "Jimm-isms" (his own creative word inventions), made the Bible come alive in ways that were both memorable and transformative. His teachings broke spiritual strongholds and helped countless people walk in freedom and faith.

And if you knew Dr. Graham, you knew this too: he was a die-hard, season ticket holding, fanatical Atlanta Falcons FAN. Win, lose or draw- he was a fan and everyone knew it. Sundays during football season were a special kind of lively- especially when the Falcons played. Church would be spirited, joyful, and yes, often brief-because kickoff was calling!

On April 11, 1974, Jimmy married the late Vickie Miller Graham, and together they raised four children. On May 13, 2015, he married Lisa B. Graham, and they were blessed with a son.

Dr. Jimmy Graham leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and unwavering faith. He is survived by his devoted wife, Lisa Graham, and their nine children: Charity Graham, Jimmina Waters (Tomel), Skitzy Graham-Tobias, Solomon Graham, Aaron Padgett (Tiondra), Olivia Padgett, (Tishonjra),Austin Vega (Alexis), Luke Vega (Imanyi), and Judah Graham.

He was a proud grandfather to fourteen grandchildren: Ethan, Xavier, Christian, Javon, Lauren, Jared, Justin, Kaia, Amarie, Aubrey, Legacy, Angelina, Anastasia, and Lukas.

He is also survived by his seven beloved siblings: Patricia Graham-Langford, Luther Graham Jr. (Edith), Robert L. Graham (Carolyn), Acie B. Graham (Regina), Michael J.Graham (Elizabeth), Gregory Graham (Marka), and Sharlene D. Graham; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who were like family.

In addition to his professional and spiritual pursuits, Dr. Graham had a deep love for gardening and music. He found joy and peace working in his garden, and his deep love for music spanning sacred hymns, praise and worship, country, rock n roll, R&B and especially the soulful sounds of Aretha Franklin and The Temptations- was well known to all who knew him.

Dr. Jimmy Graham's life was a powerful testament to purpose, compassion, and unwavering faith. He lived each day seeking God's wisdom, surrendering to His will, and sharing His truth and love with all who would listen. His love for God flowed like a river-steady, strong, and overflowing -touching everyone he encountered. He will be deeply missed and forever fondly remembered.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, July 1, 2025 in the Belair Road Chapel of Platt's Funeral home with Rev. Acie Graham officiating. Burial will follow at Bellevue Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends the evening prior, on Monday, June 30 from 5:00 until 7:00 PM.