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Robert "Bob" Lee Graham III

Robert "Bob" Lee Graham III, 94, passed away Tuesday December 22, 2015 at Grace Ridge in Morganton.

Mr. Graham was born in Enoree, SC on August 31, 1921 to Robert Lee Graham II and Elizabeth Agnes Snyder Graham. He graduated from Greenville High School in 1938 and went on to complete a degree in electrical engineering at Clemson A&M College in 1942. Prior to graduation he earned a single engine pilot license and was among the first 100,000 licensed aviators in the U.S. Upon graduation he was commissioned as an ensign in the United States Naval Reserve. His navy duty stations were stateside and in the Pacific Theater. While living in Charlotte he met Lois Parker who became his wife on October 5, 1946. He was a member of the Holy Name Society of the Catholic Church, treasurer for St. Dorothy's Council in Lincolnton, NC, and an honorary life member of both the 3rd and 4th degree in the Knights of Columbus. His hobbies were flying, fishing and genealogy. He has been a member of the American Institute of Electrical Engineers, American Society of Mechanical Engineers, American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers, Newcomers Club of Moline Illinois, American Legion, Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, and the North Carolina Association of Nurserymen. He volunteered with many Lincoln County organizations including the literacy council, historical commission, and library. Mr. Graham also wrote historical articles for the Lincoln Times News and genealogical societies, taught genealogy at Gaston College, and gave talks about the Revolutionary War. At the age of 83 he finally retired and moved to Grace Ridge in Morganton. Together with his wife they published a book of family history on the Parkers of western North Carolina.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Lois Parker Graham, and one son, Robert Lee Graham IV.

Survivors include his children: Richard Graham and his wife Sally, Elizabeth L. Smith and her husband Sheldon, and Nancy W. Graham and her husband David Brown. Mr. Graham also left behind grandchildren: Erik O. Smith, Robert J. Graham and wife Yvonne as well as their daughters Lisa and Vanessa, Tracy Lee Smith, and Alison Lea Graham.

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Dorothy's Catholic Church in Lincolnton, NC on Wednesday, December 30, 2015 at 10:00AM with Father David Miller officiating.

Burial will be at Bethlehem United Methodist Church Cemetery in Cherryville with military honors provided by the Cherryville American Legion Honor Guard

A reception will follow the graveside service in the fellowship hall.

Memorials may be made to Bethlehem United Methodist Church, Cemetery Fund, c/o Doris Wilson 147 Latham Wilson Rd. Lawndale, NC 28090.

A guest register is available at www.stameycherryvillefuneralhome.com

Stamey-Cherryville Funeral Home & Cremation Service is serving the family of Mr. Graham.


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