John R. Graham

He was preceded in death by his daughters, Jennifer Lott and Mindi Gagel, and by his sister, Sandy Graham Ferguson.

John is survived by his loving wife of 41 years, Shirley Meador Graham; his daughters, Gretchen Mahoney (Sean), Kelly Embry (Raymond), and LeeAnne Graham (Bob); his step-daughter, Leigh Cameron (Jim); his step-son, Jay Roberts (Shannon); his sister, Rebecca Sertich, and multiple nieces and nephews.

He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren: Christian Mahoney (Jackie), Ian Mahoney, Karma Mahoney, Devyn Lott Mesplay (Brent), Greyson Lott, Sam Boyd (Val), Jazz Embry (Mark), Ryan Graham, Rick Baize (Chanie), Allie Smith McBroom (Josh), Bailey Gagel Dericks (Cody), Cobey Gagel, James Cameron, Wes Cameron, Will Cameron, Alex Roberts, and Caitlin Roberts; and sixteen great-grandchildren.

John graduated from Murray State University with a Master’s and a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education. He performed with a wide variety of musical groups, playing both trombone and double bass, including symphony orchestras, jazz bands, brass ensembles, and concert bands. He organized the Owensboro Community Band and led church choirs at Greenville Presbyterian Church and Owensboro Central Presbyterian Church. He was also a member of the American School Band Directors Association.

After his initial careers as a band director and in sales, he blended his interests to build a successful new business in fundraising. This career introduced him to organizations and schools throughout Louisville and the state and allowed him to travel widely. In addition to his love of music and following UK sports, John loved playing tennis competitively and with his friends. He and Shirley enjoyed traveling for him to compete in tournaments and visit family.

A private family Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, January 9, 2026 at Arch L. Heady at Resthaven, located at 4400 Bardstown Road, Louisville, KY 40218. Inurnment will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Parkinson's Foundation https://www.parkinson.org/ or Tunnel to Towers Foundation https://t2t.org/