James Anthony Graham, age 59, passed away December 30, 2020 at his home. He was born March 7, 1961 to Phyllis and Gary Graham. He grew up in Sutherland, Nebraska and the family moved to North Platte, Nebraska when James started 8th grade. James became “Jim” in school attending in North Platte.
Jim was always an avid sports fan and talented athlete. He competed in baseball, basketball and football throughout his youth. He had an unbelievable memory for sports trivia. Jim was a faithful Oklahoma Sooner fan; his kids followed his dedication to the team.
Jim was a talented singer and often sang at weddings. He could play the piano by ear and enjoyed many family gatherings and singing together. He was in choir and sang in church as well. Many people called him Big Bird after his role in a junior high musical. Jim loved all kinds of music and could “name that tune” in a few notes.
Jim had a big heart and was incredibly funny. Jim was wicked smart and could recall just about anything. He left a lot of memories for his friends and family to share.
Jim graduated from North Platte High School in 1979. He attended Kearney State College in Kearney, Nebraska until returning to North Platte to work in food service. He lived in several states working a variety of jobs. Jim worked at Butch’s Steakhouse in Hershey, Nebraska for many years.
Jim married Denise Fisher in 1984 and to this union three children were born: Zachariah, Kyleigh and Shawn, and he also gained a daughter Michelle. Jim and Denise divorced in 1990. Denise unexpectedly passed away in 1991. Jim raised the kids in Lincoln, Nebraska and then returned to Hershey, Nebraska for the kids to attend school.
Jim had a unique ability to build genuine, life-long relationships with so many people in the community and in restaurants and bars throughout his career. He taught so many people about resiliency and strength.
Jim is survived by sons, Zach of Gillette, Wyoming and Shawn of North Platte, Nebraska; daughters, KyLeigh and Michelle of North Platte, Nebraska, and Tina Moser of Cheyenne, Wyoming; grandchildren, Denise, Anthony, Adrian, Noah, and Zane; siblings, Jenni (Mike) Benson of Lincoln, Nebraska and John Graham of Exeter, Nebraska; stepmother, LaRae Graham of North Platte, Nebraska.
He was proceeded in death by his parents, Phyllis Wait and Gary Graham; grandparents, Harry and Millie Graham and Reta and James Cobb. Jim is also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Online condolences may be shared at www.adamsswanson.com. A celebration of Jim’s life will be held in the spring of 2021.