Raymond Dale “Pete” Graham, 88, formerly of 1174 East Main Street, Bradford, passed away on Monday, August 31, 2020, at the Bradford Ecumenical Home.
Born on November 5, 1931 in Butler, he was a son of the late Victor Vade and Frances (Brandon) Graham.
He was a graduate of Butler Senior High School, attended Mount Union College for his undergraduate degree and Boston University School of Theology for his Master’s degree.
On December 30, 1953 in Butler, he married Lynnette (Wilson) Graham, who survives.
Pete pastored in the United Methodist Church Western Conference in Wurtemburg, Dravosburg, Connellsville, New Castle, Clarks Mills, Smethport, Johnsonburg where he retired. He continued to serve as Associate Pastor in Bradford at the First United Methodist Church.
Pete was a member of Wesley Woods United Methodist Church Camp where he served as Dean of Horse Camp. He was a member of the Bradford Township Lions Club. He served as a leader in Boy Scouts and was awarded a 25 year pin.
He enjoyed needlepoint work and was an avid reader.
Surviving in addition to his wife Lynnette, of 66 years, are two children, Elise Megehee, of Bloomfield, NJ, and, Dr. Nathaniel (Cindy) Graham, of Bradford, one sister in law, Elaine Harbison, of Bradford, four grandchildren, Brandon Graham, Erin Graham Burd, Laura Megehee, and Victoria Megehee, four great grandchildren, Theodore Graham, Charlotte Graham, Zachary Burd, and Alexandra Burd, and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by one brother, Richard Graham.
Friends are invited to call on Monday September 7, 2020 from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm in the Hill Memorial United Methodist Church, at 2:00 pm funeral service will be held with Jay Tennies, pastor, officiating. Burial will be in Butler County Memorial Park Cemetery.
Memorials if desired, may be made to the Wesley Woods Camp, PO Box 155A RR 1, Grand Valley Pa 16420.
Arrangements are under the direction of Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes, Inc.
On-line condolences may be made at www.hollenbeckcahill.com
Pastor Pete was the first pastor I served under as the church secretary at Clarks Mills U.M.Church. I was the first secretary in this new job and I was very nervous and very young. Pete and his wife Lyn were two of the most wonderful and memorable people in my life. The “Gentle Giant” made my position and responsibilities very easy to embrace and they helped me in my Christian walk more than they will ever know. When they moved on my husband and I went and visited them several times, and I went to Bradford to stay with them also. They were the most hospitable and loving people I ever knew. Pete, I will miss you SO much. It’s like losing a part of my life to know tham at you are gone from here, but I know that Heaven is all the better for your being home with your Lord. Lynne, I love you and am praying that you are doing as well as expected, and know that Pete is Home. I know that he will be eagerly waiting for when the time comes to join in. May God’s peace be with you. Know that Danny and I love you very very much and call on us anytime. In Jesus’ Name, Carla & Danny.