Mr. Willard Ray Graham

Willard Ray Graham, Sr., 87, of Roanoke passed away Tuesday, March 21, 2023. He was born on May 14, 1935 to Matthew Graham and Erma McKinney Graham in Wyoming County, West Virginia. He was the 7th of 11 children and was known by Bill. After graduating from Narrows High School and proudly serving in the U.S. Marine Corps, Bill attended college in Akron, Ohio. He was a Life member of the American Legion Post 3, AMVETS VA-0040, VA Member at Large of VFW, and a Life member of the B.P.O. Elks Roanoke Lodge No.197, Roanoke Moose Lodge No 184 and a charter member of the Hollins, VA Moose Lodge.

Bill never met a stranger. He was a friend and mentor to many. He was a music enthusiast and a huge sports fan. He had a positive attitude, great sense of humor and has also been known to tell a joke or two.
During his career, Bill owned and managed a recruiting company in Roanoke for over 41 years. He was a Professional Recruiter and a Certified Personnel Consultant. A generous man, Bill was forever helping others.
In addition to Bill’s parents he is preceded in death by his wife, Patricia G. Graham, and eight siblings.

Bill is survived by two sons, Willard Ray Graham, II (Tammy Lewis) of McKenney, Va. and Michael C. Wray (Penny) of Troutville, Va.; sisters, Effie Lemon of Massillon, Ohio and Versie Hyatt (Ted) of Adron, Ohio; several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews; as well as many friends who will miss him.

A graveside service will be held 1:00 pm, Friday, March 24, 2023 at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens with Pastor Jeff Gardner officiating. Online condolences may be made at www.lotzfuneralhomeroanoke.com