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Nora Graham, age 93, of Sturgis, went to be with her Lord and Savior Sunday morning, June 7, 2026, at Optalis Nursing and Rehabilitation in Three Rivers.
She was born July 28, 1932 in Zanesville, Ohio, daughter of the late Jake and Vertrie (Howard) Howard.
Nora made her home in Sturgis since 1964, coming from Portsmouth, Ohio. On April 24, 1948, she married Ray Earl Graham in Greenup, Kentucky. Together they shared nearly 58 years of marriage before his passing on April 27, 2006.
Throughout her working years, Nora was employed at Sturges-Young Auditorium, Foltz Bakery, and later with Sturgis Public Schools as a lunchroom monitor at Sturgis Junior High School. Many students fondly remembered her as the “Lunchroom Warden,” a title she carried with a smile and a caring heart.
Nora’s life was centered on her faith. She had a deep devotion to her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and was an active member of Calvary Chapel Church in Sturgis. Her faith guided her daily life and was evident in the kindness, love, and encouragement she shared with family, friends, and all who knew her.
A gifted guitarist, Nora found joy in music and was also talented in embroidery and needlework. Above all else, she treasured time spent with her family. Nothing brought her greater happiness than being surrounded by her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and beloved grand dogs, who filled her life with laughter and love.
She is survived by her children: Duane Graham of Three Rivers, Diane Schlabach of Midlothian, Texas, Dean (Vicki) Graham of Centreville, Mary Rinkel of Howe, Indiana, and Julie Jennette; 13 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Ray Earl Graham; daughter-in-law, Peggy Graham; son-in-law, David Rinkel; and several brothers and sisters.
The family will receive friends from 3:00 to 7:00 P.M. Thursday, June 11, 2026, at Hackman Chapel of Hackman Family Funeral Homes, 114 S. Nottawa St., Sturgis.
Funeral services celebrating the life of Nora Graham will be held at 11:00 A.M. Friday, June 12, 2026, at Calvary Chapel, 66969 N. Centerville Rd., Sturgis. Pastor Lynn Miller will officiate.
A graveside committal will follow the service at Calvary Church Cemetery.
Memorial donations would be appreciated to the family c/o Dean Graham, 20579 Roys Rd., Centreville, MI 49032.
