James Thomas Graham

James Thomas Graham, age 96, passed into the hands of our Lord Jesus Christ on Friday, April 26, 2024. He was born June 28, 1927 in Grand Prairie, Texas, the second of 4 children born to Jessie Haines Graham and Minnie Alma Mason.

Jim grew up in Grand Prairie, and attended Grand Prairie High School where he was an avid member of the Aviation club. In 1945 Jim joined the Merchant Marines and then enlisted into the United States Air Force. He served in the USAF from 1946-1949, including a one year tour in Japan.

After his service, Jim became a master electrician by trade, but never gave up his love of all things related to airplanes. Jim, affectionately known as Crackers to his friends, was a member of the South Texas R/C Flyers for many years. He loved to fly his radio controlled planes, especially the larger ones. The club once traveled to Mexico where Jim and a good friend dressed as clowns and put on comedy skits with their flying skills for children living in an orphanage. In addition to flying his airplanes, Jim and his dear friend Rambo enjoyed hiking Park Chalk Bluff on the Nueces River.

Jim’s poetry and pencil sketches reveal a man of great humor and contemplative reflection. As a member of the Dallas Orchid Society, Jim brought delicate beauty into the world. He made good friends throughout his life by his generosity and congenial nature.

In September 1999, Jim married Floy Mason and they moved to Holly Lake Ranch. He had a strong faith and was an active member of Holly Brook Baptist Church. Jim continued to live in the Holly Lake area after Floy’s passing for several years, eventually moving to Wylie, Texas to be closer to extended family.

Jim is survived by nephews Jim Wallis and wife Joanne, Jerry Wallis, niece Judy Gage and husband David and all their families. Also extended family through his wife Floy which includes her children Marian Manning, Betty Sebastian, J.B. Mason, Linda Black, and Paula Straight and all their families.

In addition to his wife Floy, Jim was preceded in death by his wives Marguerite ‘Sunny” Graham, Ruby Betty Graham, Rosemary Graham and his sisters Marie Smith, Ann Johnson and Sarah Wallis.