Sara J. Graham

OREGON, IL ~ Sara J. Graham, 87, died peacefully on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at Generations at Neighbors Nursing Home of Byron, IL. She was born April 16, 1937, in Freeport, IL, the daughter of Chester & Julia (Young) Smith. She graduated from Freeport High school. Sara was a hard worker and held various jobs throughout her life including telephone switchboard operator. She then became a dispatcher/ 911 supervisor for Ogle and Lee counties. She was dedicated to her career and was proud to serve her communities. As long as she lived in the area, she was a devoted member of the Chana United Methodist Church, and appreciated the friendships she gained there. Throughout her life she enjoyed being active and working with her hands. She loved to sew, paint, work around the house, travel, visit apple orchards and go antiquing. Her favorite activities, however, were those that included her family, especially her grandchildren. Her family was her whole world and making memories with them was her top priority. She is preceded in death by her parents, daughter Kelly Graham and former husband James Graham. She is survived and missed dearly by her loving children Heather Graham-Lee (Joel Jordan) of Lake in the Hills, IL, Kim Graham of Oregon, IL, Craig (Corena) Graham of Peru, IL; grandchildren Whitney (Richard) Jones, Jacob (Cassie) Graham, Mackenzie (Cassie) Graham, Trevor (Jessica) Lee; great-grandchildren James, Josephine, Brooke, Oliver, Walker, Brayden and Olivia. 

 A funeral service in Sara’s honor has been scheduled for Friday, October 18, 2024, at Chana United Methodist Church beginning at 5:00 PM with Pastor Dave Rogula presiding. An hour of visitation will be held at the church just prior, between the hours of 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Memorial donations are established in her name and may be directed to the family.