Donald James Graham, Sr.

Danville, Ill. -- Donald James Graham, Sr., 72, of Danville, passed away at 11:48 a.m. CDT Monday, June 29, 2009 at Provena United Samaritans Medical Center in Danville, Illinois. Donald was born September 22, 1936 in Decatur, Illinois the son of Thelma Duff and James Graham. He married Mary C. Gossett on April 13, 1957 in Danville, Illinois. She survives. Other survivors include his children: Donnie J. Graham, Jr. of Danville, Illinois; Connie(James)LaFrance of Tilton, Illinois; Bonnie(Randy)Downing of Danville, Illinois; Rhonda Marie(Richard)McClimans of Orlando, Florida; George Graham and Tammy McNeese both of Danville, Illinois; ten grandchildren, D.J. III; Jucinda; Jennifer; Tracie; Zach; Gavin; Morgan; Quinn; Nathaniel and Jackie; five great grandchildren; one brother, George Allen(Marie)Newton of Mesa, Arizona. He was preceded in death by his mother and stepfather, Thelma(George)Newton, Sr.; Father, James Graham; one infant brother and his son-in-law, Jack McNeese. Donald retired from Bunge Lauhoff Grain in August 2002. He was a member of The Rock Church in Danville, Illinois and the Bunge Lauhoff Union. Donald enjoyed auto racing, fishing, tending to his yard, swimming and going to church. He especially enjoyed spending time with family. Per Donald's request and to help further medical research, donation has been made to the Anatomical Gift Association of Illinois. Memorial services: 11 a.m. CDT Thursday, July 2, 2009 at The Rock Church in Danville, Illinois; Officiating: Rev. Randy Downing. Contributions may be made to The Rock Church, 20 Poland Road, Danville, Illinois 61832. DeVerter Funeral Home in Cayuga, Indiana is assisting the family with arrangements.