April 11, 2023 marked the passing of (Shirley) LaVerne Graham. Eldo Graham, her husband of nearly 70 years had passed away the previous year on February 10, 2022. Theirs was a story of love, family & friends.
LaVerne was born July 7, 1931, to Vadis & Lyndell Thomas. She had four sisters; Patricia, Mary Lou, Elouise & Linda. LaVerne grew up on a farm north of Long Island, KS. All of the children worked together with both household & farm chores. At six, LaVerne started school in a one room schoolhouse & later finished school in Long Island.
Eldo was born July 22, 1929, to Elsie & Forest Graham. He had two brothers & two sisters; Darrel, Dolores, Eudora & Leo. Eldo grew up on a farm west of Long Island, KS. As he helped with the farm, he became quite adept at figuring out how to fix most anything. Eldo finished school in Long Island.
Their first date was to the circus & from there, they eventually married. They “tied the knot” on May 3, 1950. They had four children; Patricia, Timothy, Kent & Greg. They were never rich, but were hardworking & frugal. There was always a garden, a well-kept home & yard, & a reliable car. Eldo worked long hours operating a gas station for many years while LaVerne cooked, cleaned, preserved fruits & vegetables & took care of the children, often making & repairing clothes. Later, they bought the grocery store in Almena, KS where they moved in the early 1980s & lived for over 40 years.
They loved each other, their families, their friends & their communities. Eldo was known for his BIG hugs & the Tootsie Rolls he kept in his pocket. LaVerne was known for her wonderful cooking & quiet humor. They will be missed.
Eldo & LaVerne had four children, 12 grandchildren & 19 great grandchildren.
There will be a graveside service for both on Saturday, April 29th, at 10:30 a.m. in the Long Island Cemetery with Pastor Ron Martin officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made to either St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or to Shriner’s Hospitals.