Jerry Wayne Graham

Jerry Wayne Graham, a man of extraordinary leadership and a heart for service, passed away in Garrison, Texas, on May 3, 2026, at the age of 71. His life was a testament to his deep commitment to his family, community, and faith.

Born in Marshall, Texas, on July 19, 1954, to Harrison and Mabel (Johnson) Graham, Jerry spent his early years in Karnack, Texas, before living the majority of his life in Nacogdoches, Texas. He attended Northwood High School and graduated from Green Oak High School in Shreveport, Louisiana, in 1972, where he played viola in the symphony orchestra and participated in Junior ROTC. Demonstrating a commitment to service from a young age, Jerry proudly earned the rank of Eagle Scout. When his son joined scouting, Jerry continued his service as a Den Leader for Pack 100 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church and became the Naconiche District Cub Scout Day Camp Director for the East Texas Area Council for three years.

Jerry came to faith in the Lord Jesus Christ as his Savior as a young man. He lived by the quote, "No one, but Jesus, would like me, see all my faults and flaws, and yet love me so much that He would make my imperfect heart His dwelling place." Jerry made the most of a difficult beginning in life by striving to make the world a better place. His was a life of giving, of leadership, and of unwavering dedication to others.

For over 30 years, Jerry dedicated himself to a career in healthcare as a Board-Certified X-Ray Technologist. His career included serving as Director of Radiology in Gladewater and working for many years at Nacogdoches Medical Center, where he was instrumental in establishing the Cath Lab and excelled at organizing data for JCAHO surveys. Betty Shinn, Director of Radiology at the time, said of Jerry: "Jerry was my dearest friend. I brought him back to Nacogdoches Medical Center to open the Cath Lab. Jerry was one I could count on to get the job done. I loved him, my dear friend."

Jerry was a pillar of the Nacogdoches community, known for his remarkable ability to organize and lead. He served as President of the Nacogdoches Jaycees in 1994, earning numerous accolades, including Jaycee of the Year, the Outstanding Past President Award, Outstanding Officer of the Year, and Officer of the Month during his years in the organization. He was instrumental in bringing the Jaycee PRCA Rodeo and entertainment to the Nacogdoches Expo Center. A graduate of Leadership Nacogdoches, a program through the Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce, he was a driving force in local events. As a devout member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and a 4th Degree Knight in the Knights of Columbus, he chaired the Multicultural Festival for many years, overseeing its transition from the Expo Center to downtown. Jerry was also the chairman of the Chili Cookoff for several years, helping it grow into a beloved city tradition benefiting local charities. His most recent membership was in the Nacogdoches Lions Club, where he served as President. Lions Club member Les Littleton notes, "Jerry was a real trooper when he was an active Lions Club Member." He had a particular talent for organizing the club's Speaker Program.

When his eyesight began to fail to the point of being legally blind and his hearing was compromised, he embarked on a new adventure, opening "Antiques on Main" and operating antique booths in Lufkin, Garrison, Center, and Marshall, sharing his love for history and unique finds with the community. Mrs. Shinn also noted that Jerry was instrumental in getting her into the antique business.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Harrison and Mabel Graham, and his siblings, Bobbie, Ronnie, Johnnie, and Lynda Graham. He is survived by his loving family: his daughter, Samantha Graham of Austin, TX; his son and daughter-in-law, Benjamin and Hallie Graham, currently serving in the U.S. Army at Fort Hood, TX; and his cherished grandchildren, Eleanor, Hines, and Joan Graham. He is also survived by his sisters, Mable Graham of Shreveport, LA, and Bonnie Barnett of Boise, ID, and his ex-wife, Jamie Cooper. Jerry's legacy of service and kindness will live on in the countless lives he touched. He will be deeply missed by all who know him.

Jerry's family wishes to thank the staff at Garrison Nursing Home and Rehab for the exceptional care and professionalism they provided in tending to his needs for the last two years. Per his request, no memorial service is scheduled currently. Condolences can be posted on the Cason Monk-Metcalf website. Donations can be made in Jerry Graham's memory to the Lions Club of Nacogdoches or Sacred Heart Catholic Church.