James C. Graham

James C. Graham, age 88, of Rogers, passed away Monday, May 23, 2011, at Circle of Life Hospice at Legacy Village in Bentonville. He was born December 29, 1922, in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, to the late Ben and Ida Pearl (Truskett) Graham.

Jim served in the US Navy during World War II as a member of the Naval Composite Air Squadron VC 84. For his service, Jim’s most important awards were the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Air Medal with two gold stars, Asiatic-Pacific Theater Medal with four campaign stars (Leyte, Luzon, Iwo Jima and Okinawa), and the Philippine Liberation Medal.

After his military service, he returned to Oklahoma State University, completing his studies in 1948. During this time, he married Wanda Lee Grove on December 22, 1946, in Bartlesville. After graduation, Jim was employed with Phillips Petroleum Company until 1965 when the family relocated to Rogers. Locally, Jim was a branded Phillips wholesale petroleum distributor operating as Jim Graham Oil Company for many years until illness forced his retirement. Beside family and business, Jim had a passion for general aviation. His success in business allowed him to pursue his love of flying.

Survivors include his wife of 64 years, Wanda Graham, of the home; daughter Susan Cato and husband Jett of Fayetteville; son, William Graham of Rogers; and one grandson, Justin Cato and wife Ginny of Fayetteville.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 27, 2011, at Rogers City Cemetery, officiated by Rev. Shawn Wallace.

Arrangements are by Callison-Lough Funeral Home in downtown Rogers. www.callisonloughfuneralhome.com.