Dr. Bill Graham

Dr. Bill Graham, a longtime local dentist in Van Buren, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, March 12, 2023 at his home. He was born June 29, 1943 in Russellville to the late Milton and Lois (Bolling) Graham. A native of Van Buren, Dr. Graham graduated from the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry in 1968. Shortly thereafter, he worked alongside his father and eventually took over his father's dental practice. In 1978, he married Karen Koch and they made their home in Van Buren for 45 years.

He was a member of the Arkansas Dental Association as well as the American Dental Association. He was an active member of the First Baptist Church and enjoyed attending the church’s Systematic Theology class. He was an avid runner and a regular face at the Fort Smith Athletic Club. He was a fitness enthusiast and loved encouraging others to exercise and lead a healthy lifestyle.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son-in-law, Mark Spitzer; and a granddaughter, Charlotte Graham.

Dr. Graham is survived by his beloved wife, Karen; his sister, Pam Ball and ‘brother’ Hoanh Le; his children, Lea, Kyle, and Jay; and his granddaughter, Gwyneth.

A service to celebrate Dr. Graham's life will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, March 17, 2023 at First Baptist Church in Fort Smith, under the direction of Edwards Van-Alma Funeral Home of Van Buren, AR. A private pre-internment was held prior to this service.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Crawford County Senior Citizens Meals-on-Wheels Program, 18 Lafayette Street, Van Buren, 72956; or Fort Smith First Baptist Lottie Moon Missions Fund, 1400 Grand Avenue, Fort Smith, 72901.