Cleo Graham

Cleo Graham Sr. was born in Simsborough, Arkansas, on August 25, 1946, and left an indelible mark on everyone he encountered. With a warmth that radiated through his laughter and humor, Cleo brought joy and light into the lives of many.

Cleo was a resilient and dedicated man, proudly serving his country in the United States Army. His bravery was recognized with a Commendation Medal in 1967 during his service in Vietnam. After graduating high school, he began his career at CTS Elkhart Technical Center, a commitment he upheld both before and after his military service. Throughout his life, Cleo contributed to several businesses in Elkhart, including Chicago Almond, ultimately becoming a valued member of the team at Midwest Waste Solutions, where he formed a special bond with the owner, Bruce Carter.

A man of deep faith, Cleo played a vital role in his church community, standing alongside his brother, Pastor Willie J. Graham, and Pastor Johnathan Brown for many years. His unwavering devotion resonated with the scripture from Philippians 4:13; "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Cleo's love for the Lord was matched only by his passion for sports, especially his cherished Golden State Warriors.

His resilience and dedication shone brightly in every facet of his lifework, church, and most profoundly, his family. Cleo is survived by his beloved children: Anthony Graham and Cleo Graham Jr. of Elkhart, IN, and Bryan Guarnuccio of Lansing, Michigan, along with his cherished grandchildren: Joshua, Anthony Jr., Tihesha, Abryntinia, Sierra, Shon, and Demarco, and several great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind his sisters, Sandra Graham Logan of Middlebury, IN, and Miranda Proctor of California, his brother Woodrow Jr., of Elkhart, IN, and a large network of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and church family who will remember him fondly.

Cleo was preceded in death by his parents, Woodrow and Thelma Graham, his siblings, Sallie Williams, Charlie Graham, Connie Graham, and Pastor Willie J. Graham, as well as his former wife, Doris Gregory.

Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to his sisters Sandra and Miranda for their unwavering support through care packages, countless phone calls, and lovingly prepared home-cooked meals and salads. A special thank you is extended to his niece Terina Ware, great-niece Logan Edwards, and nephew Michael Dancler for their incredible support and dedication, along with everyone who provided care for Cleo in his final chapter. We are deeply thankful to The Sanctuary at Holy Cross for their compassionate and quality end-of-life care.

Cleo's vibrant spirit, joyful stories, strength in the face of adversity, and profound love for life and God will forever remain in our hearts. Let us hold onto the memory of Cleo Graham- a man who truly embodied love for the Lord and for his family.

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