Michael was preceded in death by his parents, Douglas and Lorraine Waldrop Graham, sister, Sherry Ann Warren, brother, JD Graham, niece Lorye Logan, nephew, Lowell McLaughlin, nephew, Landal McLaughlin, and beloved cousin, Bernard Graham.
Michael left behind his wife of 33 years, Rita Chandler Graham; his son, Greg Graham (Jessica); his grandson, JD Graham; his beloved cousin, Kay Graham, all of Pontotoc County; and his niece, Layne McLaughlin, along with several great-nieces and nephews, and great-great-nieces and nephews from Lafayette County. He also leaves behind his wife’s family, whom he loved dearly, Melissa Jo Smith (Larry), Sherry Crenshaw (Ron), niece Lara Smith, niece Melissa Smith (Jameson), all of Water Valley, MS, and niece Jessica Schwalenberg (Jamie) of Grenada, along with three great nephews and three great nieces.
When Michael was younger and healthy, he was an avid farmer, blessed with a green thumb that shined in his thriving gardens. He also loved crappie fishing and was blessed in catching an abundant amount each time he went fishing. After Michael’s farming career, he helped service CB towers, lay concrete, and harvest cotton. He worked for 17 years in the curing department at Cooper Tire, but his failing health forced him to retire.
Michael was a member of Anchor Baptist Church in Lafayette County where he served as an usher and in the Brotherhood. He was happy to tell anyone his salvation testimony.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, TN in memory of niece Lorye Logan or to the OCC Shoebox Ministry at Anchor Baptist Church, 1009 Hwy 7 South, Water Valley, MS 38965.
Graveside services will be at 11:00 A.M., Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at Sand Springs Cemetery with Rev. Ron Crenshaw officiating. Browning Funeral Home in Pontotoc is in charge of the arrangements.
