Shirley A Graham

Shirley Ann Graham, aged 94, of Clarksville, went to be with her Lord on October 20, 2025. Shirley was born August 12, 1931 to Harold and Lillian Nessett in Ludington, Michigan. She grew up in Mancelona and moved to Grand Rapids in 1949. She was a teacher at the Moffitt Hill School and the Murphy School and had lasting friendships with several of her students. In June 1957 she married Evan Graham and lived on a farm in Clarksville all their married life. She accomplished her dream of having a large family with 8 kids and shared her love with many additional children by being a foster parent for Ionia County. She loved traveling (Drummond Island and cruising in particular), as well as animals and music. She played piano at Bowne Center UMC, where she was a member, for many years.

Shirley is survived by her children Louis H. Graham of Gun Lake, Laurie (Jim) King of Big Rapids, Mark E. Graham of Wayland, Barbara (Louis) Graham-Castaneda of Rockford, Kristine (Christopher) Robinson of Middleville, Melinda J. Graham of Lansing, Mary L. Graham of Clarksville, Joseph L. Graham of Ionia, sister Darlene Berkshire of Kalkaska, Daughter in Love Laura Graham of Wyoming, 11 Grandchildren, 4 Great Grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, and friends. Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Evan, foster son Jeremy Ackerson, and her dogs Gracie and Sage.

Visitation was held at Koops Funeral Chapel in Lake Odessa on Friday, October 24 at 11 a.m. with service to follow at 1 p.m. Luncheon at Bowne Center UMC to follow graveside service.