Retired 1SG Charles “Charlie” Raymond Graham, age 84, of Clarksville, passed away Wednesday, April 1, 2020, at his residence.
Charlie came from a large southern family in Russellville, AL. He has now joined his mother, Viva Dukeminier Graham, his father, Benjamin Graham, as well as his siblings Benny, Tommy, David and Betty Ruth.
Charlie loved the Army and lived the life of a Soldier until his last breath. He served three tours in Vietnam, was a Green Beret, a Jump Master with over 100 parachute jumps, an Army Medic, and lastly a First Sergeant. He led his troops as well as his family by instilling strong values including hard work, taking care of one another, and lastly having fun.
Charlie’s fun always included people, good food, and beer. His annual 4th of July “Fish Fry” was a family affair and a community event. He taught his children to cook loads of catfish, steak fries, and his famous hush puppies. All this food was then served up to over 60 family members, friends, and others who just happened to wander in. Thanksgiving was also a very special event. He and his wife, Lil, enlisted the help of his children and prepared a couple of turkeys, a ham, vegetables and his special cornbread dressing. Plates were then loaded up and his grandchildren would pile in the truck and assist in delivering “Thanksgiving Dinner” to those who had none.
Charlie was always quick-witted and full of corny jokes. Even through his last days, he kept his humor and the jokes just got cornier.
Charlie cherished his family and is survived by his wife, Lillian Graham; his children, Charles Raymond Graham Jr., Robin Graham Warren, Roy Graham, Lee Wofford, Rita Wofford Schaal, and Connie Wofford Parkerson; his siblings, Elaine Fritz, Patsy Manley, Donald Graham and Ralph Graham; and his very special joys that put a sparkle in his eyes – 10 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.
His family is pleased to finally fulfill Charlie’s wishes of an interment with full military honors.
A Committal Service will be held Wednesday, October 13, 2021, at 11:00 AM, at Kentucky Veteran Cemetery West, in Hopkinsville, KY.
Arrangements are entrusted to Neal-Tarpley-Parchman Funeral Home, 1510 Madison Street, Clarksville, TN 37040; (931) 213-3603. Online condolences may be made at www.nealtarpleyparchman.com