Ms. Mitzi K. Graham

Mitzi Kerr Graham 82, Indianapolis, passed away Friday April 15, 2011. She was born to the late Marshall "Bud Kerr and Regina Goldman Kerr, May 24, 1928. Mitzi graduated from Shortridge High School in 1946, and attended Butler University. She married the late James M. Graham in 1946; they were married for 31 years.

Mitzi was passionate about the Indianapolis 500, attending her first race in a basket carried by her father when she was six weeks old and, until two years ago, missing only one race in 1948 because of the birth of her first child. Mitzi became the first female official in the history of the Indy 500 when she became a member of the United States Auto Club's technical committee for the 1974 Indianapolis 500.

Mitzi was an active volunteer with the American Red Cross for over 50 years, serving as, among other capacities, volunteer disaster coordinator for the American Red Cross unit in Indianapolis. She was an active member of the International Council of World Affairs and loved to travel.

Mitzi is survived by four children: Jane Graham-Roberts of Portland OR,Susan Baker of Indianapolis IN, Mary L. Graham of Westfield IN, James M. Graham, Jr. of Indianapolis. She is also survived by four grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Memorial contributions may be made in Mitzi's name to the American Red Cross or Alzheimer's Association.

A memorial calling will be held Thursday April 21, 2011 from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. in Crown Hill Funeral Home.