Terry Graham

A thousand smiles can speak volumes for what the heart feels. Terry Graham's ever present smile and laughter could light up a room. An expression of his inner joy, it was a precursor to his pleasant disposition, thoughtful, kind ways, and compassionate nature. When surrounded by the family he cared for and loved deeply, Terry was in his element. And with them by his side, there was no greater delight or satisfaction for him. Although he will be dearly missed, fond memories will serve as a comfort in the days ahead as he is remembered with love.

Terry's story began during a quieter, more stable time in America. Even though tensions continued to flare overseas, the post-war baby boom of the 1950s found families moving to the suburbs. With the increasing number of women entering the workforce, the introduction of the TV dinner was a welcome addition to their kitchens. And just as Elvis was ushering in his career, the U.S. Supreme Court ushered out segregation, deeming it unconstitutional in all U.S. public schools. For Norman and Dorothy (Berry) Graham of Chicago, Illinois, the future looked nothing but bright. On Thanksgiving Day, November 25, 1954, they welcomed the blessing of two bundles of baby boy with the birth of their twin sons, Terry and Gary.

Born and raised in the bustling city of Chicago, Terry and his brother grew up with their siblings, Tammy and Scott. He held fond memories of his childhood, particularly time spent with his brothers and sister, and cousins, too. Over the years he loved reminiscing about all their adventures and the mischief they created, especially at their mamaw and papaw's house.

From his earliest beginnings, faith played a vital role in Terry's life. As a family, they faithfully attended and were involved in church. He especially loved singing at church, and also enjoyed playing softball during his youth. Having attended the local schools, he was an all-around guy, and his easy going nature and ready smile found him enjoying the friendships of many. He went on to graduate from the fighting Bulldogs at Schurz High School in Chicago.

After high school, Terry served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. Upon returning home following his honorable discharge, he took up where he left off. His family and church were a steadfast anchor in his life for which he was ever grateful. As his personal faith continued to grow, he faithfully attended services and other activities at church. It was there, through mutual friends, where Terry met the love of his life in 1977.

Janice Gruber was a lovely young woman who stole Terry's heart from the moment he met her. They shared many of the same values, faith, and she appreciated his great sense of humor. Of course, his winning smile was completely charming, and before long they were steadily dating. After falling deeply in love, Terry and Janice shared vows of marriage before a congregation of family and friends on February 4th, 1978 in Chicago. Soon after setting up a home to call their own, they were blessed with the birth of their son, Dan. Later, daughter, Lauren made their family of four complete. They also added the addition of two beloved canine companions over the years, Lucky and Babe.

Terry had a way with people which naturally drew others to his side. He also had an entrepreneurial spirit, and ventured into business as Vice President of Graham's Home Furnishings from which he eventually retired after 20 years of service. He was a hard worker, yet he found time to enjoy some of the finer things in life, like following and cheering on his favorite teams, the Chicago White Sox and Bears. Besides being blessed with two wonderful children, Terry counted the day the Sox won the World Series as one of the greatest days of his life. There was much fun to be had with an ongoing rivalry with the rest of his family who happened to be avid Cubs fans.

Among other things, Terry continued to play softball throughout the years along with his love for singing at church. He also loved following evangelist Jimmy Swaggart, and found listening to good, old southern, gospel music good for his soul. He attended and was an active member of Lifehouse Church. Terry liked doing word searches, and when it came to TV, he was a big fan of the Three Stooges, Andy Griffith, and watching old westerns. Near to Terry's heart, however, was any time spent enjoying the company and love of family. He especially treasured each Christmas Eve surrounded by his entire family. His grandsons, Jaxson and Jameson, were truly his delight and he absolutely loved spoiling them.

Those who knew and loved Terry were blessed to have been touched by his kindness and genuine heart. May his love and compassion be what is remembered most, along with his gleaming smile which spoke a thousand words.

At the age of 57, Terry L. Graham passed away on Tuesday, May 15, 2012 at his home in Kankakee, Illinois. He is survived by his wife, Janice; children, Dan Graham and Lauren Graham, both of Kankakee; his father, Norman Graham of Kankakee; his siblings, twin brother, Gary (Iris) Graham of Bonfield, Rev. Scott (Nicky) Graham of Kankakee, Tammy (Rod) Parchman of Cleveland, Tennessee; grandsons, Jaxson and Jameson; ten nieces: Jennifer Stout, Jessica Graham, Melissa O’Conner, Miya Graham, Tabitha Parchman, Sarah Gruber, Michelle Wilcox, Chris Rizza, Karen Gruber, Lindsey Gruber; eight nephews: Josh, Jesse, and Caleb Parchman, Dylan, Ethyn, and Clayton Graham, James Jr. and Karl Gruber; several aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Terry was preceded in death by his mother, Dorothy Graham; maternal grandparents, Raymond and Sissie Berry; paternal grandparents, Troy and Beatrice Graham; and a nephew, Benjamin Parchman.

A time of gathering with Terry's family will take place from 4-8 PM on Thursday, May 17, 2012 at Schreffler Life Story Funeral Homes-Kankakee Chapel. Funeral services will be held Friday, May 18, 2012, 10:00 AM at the same location with Rev. Rod Parchman officiating. Interment in Kankakee Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Lifehouse Church are appreciated. Please visit Terry’s memory page at www.schrefflerfuneralhome.com where you can share a favorite memory, photo and sign his online guest book.