Lola M Graham

Lola Mae Graham, 80, of Collinsville, IL, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on July 31, 2024. She was born on September 16, 1943, in East St. Louis, IL, to Rodney and Orlean (Braundmeier) Johnson.

Lola married the love of her life, Gary Graham, on June 9, 1962. They were married for over 58 years and together raised their two children, Shari and Kevin. Lola retired after 25 years of working as a department manager for Walmart in Collinsville. In her free time, she enjoyed sewing, crocheting, working on puzzles, and most importantly spending time with her family. Lola’s great love for her family shined through in everything she did. She never hesitated to offer help or be there for every moment, big or small. She was also the family’s go-to seamstress, always willing to hem or make adjustments to clothing, create curtains, or anything else the family needed.

Lola was loved by all who knew her and will be deeply missed.

She is survived by her daughter, Shari (Troy) Eckmann; her son, Kevin (Marie) Graham; grandchildren, Brandon (Zena) Eckmann and Hilary Graham; her sister, Carol (Bud) Geaschel; her brother-in-law, Bob (Donna) Graham; her sister-in-law, Helen Graham; her nieces and nephews, and her cherished grand-dogs, Zoe, Frank, Luna, Toby, and Mack, as well as her great-grand dogs, Belle and Lucy.

Lola was preceded in death by her parents, Rodney and Orlean; her beloved husband, Gary; and her brother-in-law, Bill Graham.

Memorial donations in Lola’s honor can be made to Metro East Humane Society, Edwardsville, IL.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 7, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A brief visitation will follow on Thursday, August 8, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, with a Celebration of Life service immediately following.

Services will be held at Lake View Memorial Gardens & Funeral Home in Fairview Heights, Illinois 5000 North Illinois Street Fairview Heights, IL 62208.