Ronny Elbert Graham, 73 of Queen Creek, AZ, passed away on September 17, 2022. He was born in Alexandria, VA on June 29th, 1949. He resided in different areas of Virginia before moving to Arizona in 2020. He graduated from George Marshall High School, attended Northern VA Community College, and was in The US Army serving most of his time in Vietnam.
He retired early from Fairfax Co. Government at age 42 due to complications from diabetes. After retiring, the opportunity came that allowed him to care for several kids, some were family and others who became family. He was able to watch his grandsons from the time they were six weeks old. All the kids loved Ronny and his goofy sense of humor. They did, however, learn quickly that they better behave, or he would have them watch the news for punishment. It was an enjoyable time for him, and those children were blessed.
Ronny lived life to the fullest; he was always smiling. He had many hobbies and interests throughout his lifetime. He enjoyed Drag racing during the summer on Friday nights with his son and many friends. He loved going fast, the competition of the race and the joy of teamwork. You would see him at the track with his “lucky juice” in his hand but to everyone else it was Crystal Light. For 15 years he had a blast country dancing with his best friend and wife, Sue, several times a week. He also enjoyed bowling, fishing, and camping. After moving to AZ, the highlight of his week was playing cards with instant close friends. He and his wife went on several cruises and had a lot of fun, especially the ones shared with family and friends.
Ronny is preceded in death by his father, Shirley Elbert and mother, Gwendolyn “Millie” Graham and sister, Dianna Vogel.
He is survived by his wife, of 50 years, Sue Graham, his son, Ryan Graham and wife, Kelli Graham. His daughter, Wendy Leewe and her husband, Tom; his grandsons Jake and Kyle Graham and Zachary Leewe, his brother Larry Graham and his wife Alicia, and his sister Pat Schwalder and her husband Paul.
A celebration of life will be held at San Tan Mountain View funeral home October 14 at 11:00. With light lunch following. The address is 21809 S Ellsworth Rd., Queen Creek, AZ 85142 Phone # 480-888-2682.
In lieu of flowers the family asks to consider donating to JDRF – Type 1 Diabetes Research Funding and Advocacy (Diabetes Association).