Ruth Ella Graham

Ruth Ella (Boyd) Graham, daughter of the late Edward and Virginia (Dixon) Boyd was born October 6, 1933 in Helena, Arkansas.  After graduating in 1955 from Eliza Miller High School she later  relocated to Chicago, Illinois.   

The move to the “Big City” did not cause her to forget her upbringing and strong spiritual back-ground.  She quickly joined St. Michael M.B. Church under the leadership of Pastor G.W. Conner and remained a member there for almost 70 years.  Ruth was a godly woman and her faith in God was manifested in everything she did and in everything she did not do.   

On January 3, 1959, Ruth E. Boyd was united in holy matrimony to John M. Graham (who  preceded her in death).  To this union six children were born: Michael, Andre, John Keith (who preceded her in death), James, Darryl, and Tameka.

Though she did not work much outside the home she was a virtuous woman who earned income through her many gifts and talents.  She was known as the neighborhood babysitter.  So many  continued to call her “Moma” even after they were adults.  In addition, there was a high demand throughout the neighborhood and beyond for her delicious homemade ice cream and icy cups.  

Ruth was a great cook and because she lived next door to the church oftentimes there was standing room only for Sunday dinner.  

She was a very generous woman with a meek and kind spirit, very soft spoken and one who rarely complained.  She volunteered her services at the church for many years and was honored to have been promoted to a church Mother.   

She leaves to cherish her memories Five children: Michael (Beverly), Andre, James “Jimmy” (Tammie), Darryl and Tameka;  Five grandchildren:  Izell (Quita), Zachary (Kenyetta), Michael Jr., Jasmin and James Jamon; Great-grandchildren:  Tasharia, Ashanti, Janiya, Jacari, Naddiah,  Journey, and Zach Jr. (Deuce);  one brother, Jesse “JB” Boyd and Kassandra Henderson, who she affectionally called Best Friend, many godchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.   

On July 2, 2022 she joined others in eternity:  husband John, son Keith, parents, five brothers: Lanfrey, Herbert, Felton, Melton and Eddie Boyd; and one sister: Mary Boyd.

She will be missed but fondly remembered by all who knew and loved her.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ruth Ella Graham, please visit our floral store.