Born on October 21, 1926, Polly was one of nine brothers and sisters born to Talmadge and Sudie Real. She grew up on the family farm in the Byrd community near Detroit, Alabama. The values, work ethic and family commitment Polly learned growing up on the farm were strong driving forces throughout her life. After graduating from Hamilton High School in 1944, Polly moved to Birmingham where she later met and married Emris Hayden Graham, Sr.
Polly was a businesswoman throughout her life. Her career began in the 1950s as a television and appliance saleswoman for Firestone. She then worked for the Census Bureau, conducting studies throughout Alabama, eventually establishing her own market research company, Polly Graham & Associates. Polly’s business began at her kitchen table and serves as the roots for a company that still operates today.
Polly Graham never knew a stranger. She had the ability to meet a person and learn their entire life story in a matter of minutes. She was warm, friendly, and approachable to anyone and everyone. Polly had a great passion for Southern cooking and was known far and wide for her meals. An invitation to her table was sure to be a memorable experience for family and guests.
Polly is predeceased by her husband, Hayden, her son, Larry Edward, and her second husband, Jesse Grigg. She was also predeceased by her parents, six brothers and one sister. Polly is survived by her children, Emris H. Graham, Jr. (Sharon), Charles H. Graham (Janet), Sue Anderson (John), her grandchildren, Emris Graham, III (Adria), Chandlar Graham (Kristen), Barrett Van Sise (Holly), Anne Lauren Graham, Hunter Graham (Lauren), Ashley Anderson and Chris Anderson (Christie), her great-grandchildren, Emris Graham, IV, Mary Alice Graham, Andi Kate Graham, Lucy Graham, Chandlar Mae Graham, Sullivan Van Sise, Graysen Van Sise, Chason Graham and Harbor Anderson. Polly is also survived by her sister, Benice Vann, special family friend, Edward Wimes, and stepdaughter, Joy Denton, in addition to many nieces, nephews and longtime friends.
Polly was a lifelong believer and a charter member of Meadow Brook Baptist Church. The family wishes to thank Edward Wimes and the staff at Fairhaven Methodist Home for the loving care given to Polly.
Due to COVID-19, the family will hold a private graveside service. Remembrances may be made to Meadow Brook Baptist Church at 4984 Meadow Brook Road, Birmingham, AL 35242, the American Macular Degeneration Foundation at P.O. Box 515, Northhampton, MA 01061, or to your favorite charity.
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