Kenneth Jay Graham
Kenneth Jay Graham passed away at age 70 on April 4, 2016 after a long and valiant struggle with cancer. He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Dr. Connie Stone; a brother, Dennis Graham; and five nieces and a nephew. Ken was born in the central valley of California, but spent much of his youth in Saudi Arabia where his father worked for Aramco Oil. He attended high school at the American Community School in Beirut, Lebanon. After earning a Master's degree from San Diego State University, Ken attended graduate school in the anthropology department at Arizona State University. He was respected for his long career in social work for the Arizona Division of Developmental Disabilities and the Refugee Medical Assistance Program. As a talented ceramic artist, Ken was a partner in the Craftsmen's Cooperative Gallery in Heritage Square. He was an expert in aviculture, breeding parrots and serving as a president of the Arizona Avian Breeders' Association and an officer of the Arizona Aviculture Society. He loved playing harmonica and enjoying live music at the Rhythm Room in Phoenix. We will fondly remember his sharp mind, keen wit, and good heart.
No immediate services are planned. There will be a future private event for family and friends. Suggestions for memorial contributions are the International Rescue Committee; the Arizona Humane Society, where Ken adopted his dog Pepper; or a charity of one's choice.