Gerald Robert "Jerry" Graham

On November 23, 2022, our “Poppy” (Gerald “Jerry” Robert Graham) passed away at home surrounded by family. He was the faithful husband of Vicki for more than 51 years. Poppy was the proud father of Jennifer Jolly (Mike), Michael (Page), and Jonny (Delia).  Poppy was grandfather to Owen (Kasidy), Olivia, Oakley, Wesley, Camila, Carmen, Daniella, Sammy, and Charlotte. He adored his grandchildren and joyfully attended ball games, concerts, and birthday parties.

God gifted Paul and Carmen Graham with Poppy on October 14, 1949, in Asheville, North Carolina.

Poppy was an animated storyteller, and some of his favorite tales stemmed from his childhood memories made at Crossnore School and Children’s Home.

Early in life, Poppy learned the importance of hard work and modeled that ethic to others throughout his life.  Even after retirement, he continued to selflessly help neighbors and family with yardwork and home repairs.

We’re comforted that Poppy was a follower of Jesus Christ.  He believed he was a sinner separated from God and in need of reconciliation.  He believed that God’s only Son lived a perfect life on earth, died on a cross to take his punishment, and rose again to be his Savior. And now Poppy is at home with Jesus in heaven.

Our family cannot begin to express enough appreciation for the hospice team who served with grace, competence, and compassion.

We have been overwhelmed with the prayer and support from Charity Baptist Church and other churches. What a beautiful picture of the body of Christ lifting each other up in love.

Our Kannapolis family—the KPD, the KFD, our Cannon Ballers’ friends, and many others—has also been generous and encouraging in providing community care.

Visitation will be held in the sanctuary at Charity Baptist Church (2420 Brantley Road, Kannapolis, North Carolina 28083) from 1:00-2:45 p.m. on Sunday, December 4, 2022.  A celebration of his life and his new home in heaven will take place in the same location at 3:00 p.m.  A family-only graveside service will be held at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Matthews.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made online or by mail to Charity Baptist Church’s Food Pantry Building Project.

“Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.” Psalm 116:15