Darrell Ray Graham Sr.

**In loving memory of Darrell R. Graham Sr** Darrell R. Graham Sr., age 72, made a peaceful transition to his eternal heavenly home on March 20th, 2024, while at home and surrounded by many family members and friends, and with his dear wife "Elaine" of more than 30 years whom he loved with all his heart. Darrell was born on October 31st, 1951, in Bayou La Batre, Alabama to L. W. "Willie" Graham Sr. and Olivete Graham. Darrell was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and employer. He was a prominent businessman in the "Bayou" for many years and developed lifelong friendships with many whom he had employed. He was well-respected for his honesty and good business dealings by many shrimpers and others within the fishing industry and community. He was a notable pillar in the lives of his children, especially his first four grandchildren, Taylor, Madison, Darrell R. "Trey" Graham III, and Moira. He and Elaine would load the four grandkids up and take off in "The Bus." He kept them busily entertained. He was ever-present and recognized by these four grandchildren as their father. Those who knew him best knew this about him, though he truly loved all of his children and grandchildren equally and with his whole heart. Darrell was greatly known for his generosity towards others, whether philanthropic or otherwise. He was meek and humble, often a man of few words. He believed things were best left unsaid rather than said unkindly. When hearing unbecoming words or gossip, he would simply reply "Hmmm" and usually just walk away. He possessed much wisdom and used this wisdom to provide guidance and mentorship to all who knew him. He showed compassion and empathy towards those in need by offering his support and assistance whenever possible. Darrell is survived by his loving wife Elaine, whom he called "Barbara." His children include Darrell Ray, Jenny (Gary), Nicholas (Amberleigh), Chasity, and Anthony (Daisy). His grandchildren are Taylor, Madison, Trey, Moira whom he nicknamed "Tumbleweed", Landen, Macey, Braxton, Cameron, Makenzie, Joey, Laynie, Madilyn, Belle, Analyese, Eliyana and Liam; he also has many great-grandchildren, all of whom were adored by him equally as much. He was preceded in death by his father, L.W. Graham and his momma, Olivete (Collier) Graham, his sister, Barbara, known by him as "Bob", his brother, L.W., known as "Buddy", his sister, Frieda, Frieda's two sons - Van and Bryan, his sister, Willietta, and his youngest son, "Sonny." He left behind three loving siblings, Rhett (Steve), Sharon, and Steve (Helen). He was often referred to as "The Baby" amongst his siblings. His momma made sure that everyone knew that was "her baby." They all were extremely proud of him and doted over him often. Darrell did have two very special requests that he wanted mentioned when asked what he would like to have said about him. Foremost, he wanted to make sure that "Monica Darby" was honorably mentioned. Monica is someone he especially trusted and respected. She was always available for him for his health-related needs. She was his nurse, his advocate, and more importantly, his great niece. He wanted her to know how much he loved her and appreciated every sacrifice she made while taking care of him. He said, "She is a good nurse, a good girl, tell I said so." Secondly, he wished for his grandsons, Darrell R. "Trey" Graham III, Cameron Sheffield, Landen Shirah, Braxton Shirah, Joey Alexander, and his nephew Dominick Ficarino, to have the honor of escorting him to his final resting place at Oddfellow's Cemetary in Bayou La Batre, AL. Per his request, they will represent him as his pallbearers. He wanted his honorary pallbearers to include, Ray Kirch, Randy Hayes, B. J. Hutto, James Fuller, and Dennis Morrison. A memorial service in honor of Darrell's life will be held on Monday, March 25th, 2024, at Lighthouse of Hope Holiness Church on Argyle Road in Irvington, Alabama. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a Christian charity or organization of your choosing in Darrell's memory. Darrell's legacy of love, friendship, and benevolence will forever resonate with those whose lives he touched. His kindness, strength, and guidance will be deeply missed as the entire family and community has suffered a great loss of a great man. One final note is that at the end of Darrell's life, it was apparent he had a true experience with the Lord. He would remind those surrounding him that "salvation is free." He was proud to share his testimony of what God had done in his life with his family. He wanted everyone he loved to know true repentance was the only way to make it to Heaven. You could see his love for the Lord in his countenance, demeanor, and through his spoken words. He took much comfort in knowing he would soon reunite with his Momma, Daddy, Brother, Sisters, and others he loved that had gone on before him. Shortly before his passing he said "Can you hear that? I hear harps strumming." The angels were near to carry him home and he knew he was headed to a place of unimaginable beauty, peace, and tranquility. In closing, Rest in heavenly peace, Poppo. Your spirit will live on through the memories and love shared by all who knew you. As you made your transition to your heavenly home, it was evident that you were going to be with the Lord. We took much comfort in knowing your soul was in good standing. It was an honor to be by your side as you crossed over that Jordan River into Glory. It is now the hope of your family that you will wait patiently for us as God will allow us to meet with you again on the other side of Heaven, where you are now resting comfortably, wholly, and at eternal peace. Much love forever, Elaine, your children, your grandchildren, your family, and your friends.

Tributes

Darrell Ray Graham Sr.

October 31, 1951 - March 20, 2024