Ralph Graham

Ralph was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and great‑grandfather who lived his life with kindness, humor, and a deep devotion to the people he loved most. Over the course of nearly five decades with Kentucky Fried Chicken, he built a respected career that grew into his later role as General Manager for Barbati Enterprises. Ralph loved being with his family—traveling on vacations, going out for meals, or simply enjoying time together—and he had a special appreciation for life’s small joys, including the occasional casino trip. He had a quiet, easy humor that made time together feel even more special, and he could be a little ornery at times, always in a way that brought a smile to the people around him.

Nothing meant more to Ralph than his grandchildren and great‑grandchildren. He celebrated every milestone, encouraged every dream, and cherished every visit. His joy in them was unmistakable, shining through in his smile and in the way he spoke about them. He passed along plenty of wisdom to his grandchildren—lessons remembered with love. A longtime Louisville Cardinals fan, Ralph also loved talking sports, especially the highs and lows of both the Wildcats and the Cardinals.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Garlen and Palvenia Graham.

Ralph is survived by his loving wife of 69 years, Jessie Mae Graham (Cowles) and their daughter, Meloney McMillian (Joe) of Louisville; grandchildren, Austin McMillian (Bethany) and Taelor Adams (Tyler) of Louisville; great grandchildren, Palmer and Hadley McMillian and Sutton and Graham Adams. Two sisters, Rhonda Wilson (Wally) of Murray and Mary Thomas of Fancy Farm. Three brothers, Kenneth Graham Sr. of LaGrange, Milton Graham of Bardwell, and Bobby Graham of Fancy Farm; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family who will carry his memory forward.

Visitation will be held at Arch L. Heady at Resthaven, located at 4400 Bardstown Road, Louisville, KY 40218, on Sunday, February 8, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm, and again on Monday, February 9, 2026, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm.

The funeral service will take place at the same venue on Monday, February 9, 2026, starting at 12:00 pm, followed by entombment at Resthaven Memorial Park.