Stephen W. Graham, age 92, of Biggsville, Illinois passed away at 11:35 am on Thursday March 13, 2025 at Oak Lane Nursing and Rehab in Stronghurst, Illinois. Stephen was born on December 5, 1932, in Burlington, Iowa to Stephen Wendell and Ellen Gibb Graham. He was raised on their family farm near Biggsville, Illinois and attended Lynnville rural country school, graduating from Biggsville High School in 1950. He then attended Iowa State University in Agriculture. Stephen served his country as a 1st Lieutenant in the United States Air Force between 1953 and 1957. He married Mary Elizabeth Martin on October 17, 1954, in the First Methodist Church of Burlington, Iowa, and she survives. Stephen was a grain and livestock farmer in Henderson County his entire career. He was an active member of the Henderson County Farm Bureau, and the Biggsville United Presbyterian Church where he has served as Deacon, Trustee, and Elder. Stephen was proud of his Scottish lineage and learned to play the Scottish Bagpipes with the Monmouth College pipe band. He played with the Monmouth College Pipe Band and performed many engagements throughout the years. He was a member of the Oquawka Masonic Lodge 123, and enjoyed bowling and slow pitch softball. Stephen also performed with the Buchanan Chorus for many years. Surviving him is his wife, Mary Graham of Biggsville, Illinois and five daughters, Johanna ” Jody ” Little of Blandinsville, Illinois, Jeanne Seitz and William of Biggsville, Illinois, Julie Graham-Johnson and Scott of Little Rock, Arkansas, Jennifer Houston and Rex of Denmark, Iowa, and Jaimee Carter and Gary of Divernon, Illinois. There are eleven grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandson. Stephen is also survived by his brother, Jon Graham and Sharon of Biggsville, Illinois, his niece, Lorella McLaughlin and Bill in Elgin, Illinois, their two daughters, and a grandchild. He is preceded in his death by his parents, two infant siblings and his son in law, Lloyd Little.
Turnbull Funeral Home in Oquawka is in charge of his care. Cremation is being accorded as per his wishes. A graveside funeral service is planned on Friday April 18, 2025, at 10:30 am in the South Henderson Cemetery. In case of inclement weather, the service will be held in South Henderson Church. Memorial funds are being established for either Oak Lane Nursing and Rehab or Hospice Compassus. To leave your remembrance please visit www.turnbullfuneralhomes.com
