Raymond Elmer Graham, Jr. left his earthly home for his heavenly home on September 28, 2010 surrounded by his loving family. He fought colon cancer with hope, determination, courage and humor and set an example of living life well for five years. He was born in St. Louis, Mo., to Raymond Elmer Graham, Sr. and Grace Thompson Graham on May 3, 1936 and grew up in Eureka, Mo. He served in the National Guard for 5 and a half years. Ray is survived by his loving and devoted wife Mary Belle Graham; Daughter Cheryl Eck and husband Greg Eck; Son Kevin Graham and wife Florence Graham, Granddaughter Lauren Eck, and Grandsons Jason Eck, William Eck, Hayden Graham and Healey Graham all of Springfield. Sisters Gwen Herman and husband Gary, Phoenix, Ariz.; and Faye Bopp and husband Larry, Apple Valley, Minn.; Uncle John Thompson and wife Ann of Cuba, Mo.; two nieces, three nephews, a large extended family and a host of friends, all of whom he dearly loved. Ray grew up working on automobiles with his father and worked 10 years with his uncle at a dealership in St. Louis. He moved with his family to Springfield in 1966 and opened Graham Automotive in 1967. He established a reputation of honesty and reliability, and earned the respect of his customers. In retirement, he set up a hobby car shop to restore and service antique cars. It was also a gathering place for friends who spent many hours on their cars, discussing myriads of topics, going to lunch and mostly kidding and laughing. He loved being with people, having fun, telling jokes and exercising his quick wit. He also enjoyed travelling, sports, car shows and spending time with family. The family wishes to extend their love and appreciation to all of those who supported them in so many ways throughout his illness. Also to Hulston Cancer Center staff, Oxford Hospice (especially Richard) and the care of Drs. Kenneth Powell and Robert Ellis. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions may be made to American Cancer Society 3322 S. Campbell Ste. P Springfield, MO 65807 or Children's Miracle Network 3525 S. National Ste. 203 Springfield, MO 65807 or charity of givers choice. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct.1 at Fellowship Bible Church, 4855 S. Farm R. 205, Rogersville, MO. Memorial services will be at 2 PM Saturday, Oct. 2 (also located at Fellowship Bible Church) with Pastor Phillip Wright officiating. Interment of ashes will be at a later date.