Michael Ray Graham Sr.

Michael Ray Graham was born on January 2, 1955 to the late Thomas Milton Graham and Fannie Graham in Newton, MS. Michael departed this life Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at the age of 71. He graduated from Roth High School in 1973 and retired from General Motors in 2005 after 30 years of service.

After retirement he spent his days running errands with the music blasting, singing his favorite James Brown and Frankie Beverly songs.

Michael enjoyed spending days on the fishing bank from sunup to sundown then coming home with a bucket full of blue gill to fry up and share among his family. Speaking of family, he enjoyed quality time with his loved ones the most; from hanging out with his siblings and cousins on holidays, watching his favorite shows and movies with his wife and kids, and cheering his grandchildren to victory at their sporting events.

Michael was the biggest Bengals and Ohio State fan to walk this earth! A lover of all things beautiful, he had a passion for flowers, whether planting them around his home or creating elaborate arrangements for inside the home, his creativity was unmatched. Michael was an amazing friend, father, brother, and uncle to all he encountered and will be deeply missed. 

Michael was preceded in death by his parents; eldest sister, Wylma Jean Lucas.

Michael is survived by his wife, Betty Joyce Graham; sons, Michael Graham Jr. (Donisha) and Marvin Graham (Destiny); daughter, Tanesha Graham (Miche’Le); brothers, Thomas Jesse Graham and Anthony “Pookie” Graham; baby sister, Gwendolyn Davis; grandchildren, Johnesha, Jamariea, Jamika, Michael III, Kasaun, Kye, Khymari Khaleel, Marshawn, Lorenzo, and  Aniyah; as well as a host of bonus grandchildren, cousins, other family members and friends. 

Funeral Service 1 pm Friday, May 22 ,2026 at House of Wheat Funeral Home, 2107 N. Gettysburg Ave., Dayton, OH. Visitation 10 am- 1 pm. Family will receive friends 12 pm- 1 pm. Interment West Memory Gardens.

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