Gary Graham

(From Parker Mortuary)

Gary Lynn Graham, age 79 passed away Sunday, July 4th, 2021 at The University of Kansas Medical Center.

Gary was born September 8th, 1941 in Bethany, MO, son of the late Clarence and Bessie (Beeks) Graham. 

He graduated from Bethany High School in 1958. He was then drafted in October of 1967 to fight in the Vietnam War. He served as a cook as well. 

In 1968, he returned home and was awarded the Purple Heart. In 1973, he married Judy Chatham in Joplin. Gary loved to wood carve and took great pride in his Mickey Mouse sculpture. He enjoyed farming and riding his tractor. His main passion though was serving God, going to church, and helping others. He was a member of Landmark Tabernacle in Redings Mill, MO. He enjoyed raising white German Shepherds.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his ex-wife, Judy Graham; brother-in-law, Clarence Glenn.

Survivors include his two sons, Michael Graham (Teresa) of Joplin, MO, and Matthew Graham (Tuesday) of Joplin, MO; step-daughter, Tracey Oxendine of Springfield, MO; sister, Joan Glenn of Bethany, MO; four grandchildren, Kelly Graham, Laura Graham, Timothy Graham, and Elaina Graham.

Funeral service will be Friday at 12:00 p.m. in Landmark Tabernacle of Redings Mill, MO with burial to follow at Osborne Cemetery in Joplin.

Family will receive friends at Landmark Tabernacle on Thursday from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.

The family has requested in lieu of flowers to send donations to Landmark Tabernacle.