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Graham Hardeman was born on June 23, 1943, in Decatur, Georgia, to Albert and Mary Lizzie Hardeman. He was the fourth of five children. On May 23, 2026, the Lord called Graham home to rest, where he was reunited with his beloved son, Ryan Keith Hardeman, who preceded him in death on March 31, 2021. Graham was educated in the Decatur Public School System and graduated from Trinity High School. Upon graduation, he was offered a basketball scholarship to Clark College in Atlanta, Georgia. However, he chose a different path, relocating to New Jersey and New York City area to join his older sister and brother-in-law. While there, he worked as a parking attendant and later for Copper and Coal, operating cranes over the Hudson River, all while studying to pursue a career as an electrician. Graham had a bold and adventurous spirit. He enjoyed high-speed driving, high diving, and taking on thrilling challenges. He also had a passion for music and entertainment, promoting talent shows and even promoted Kool & the Gang before their rise to national fame. In 1974, Graham returned to Decatur, Georgia, where he began a long career as a bus driver with MARTA, from which he later retired. He also enjoyed organizing and promoting trips to New Orleans, often centered around supporting his favorite football team, the Atlanta Falcons. A devoted sports fan, Graham loved watching games and frequently called his son and friends to discuss plays and performances. On October 7, 1975, Graham married Virginia Ann Hardeman. To this union, they welcomed a son, Ryan Keith Hardeman. Graham also cherished his children: Graham Hardeman Jr., Jeanine Hardeman, and Lewis Jackson. Graham leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife, Virginia Hardeman; his children, Graham Hardeman Jr. (Nia), Jeanine Hardeman, and Lewis Jackson (Sherry); and his grandchildren, Nuba and Naima Jackson; Jaslyn, Brianna, and Lewis Jackson IV; and great-grandchild, Harmony. He is also survived by his late son Ryan’s family, Vendredi Hardeman, and grandchildren, Summer, Joseph, and Aaron. He is further survived by his sister, Betty Hawk (husband Ernest, deceased), along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, and dear friends. Graham was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Ryan Keith Hardeman; his siblings, Elizabeth Benton (Charles), Virginia Hardeman (husband Henry Blackburn), and Albert Hardeman Jr. (surviving wife Katie Hardeman). Graham’s legacy of love, strength, and vibrant spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. His memory will forever be cherished by his family and friends. The Celebration of Life Service for Graham Hardeman will be held on Sunday, June 7, 2026 at 2:00 PM. This service will be recorded and streamed live. If the event is interrupted at any time due to technical issues, the entire event will be uploaded and available to view later in the day. Please copy and paste the link to share or simply click on the link to view the event. https://vimeo.com/event/5969464 Services entrusted to Gregory B. Levett & Sons Funeral Home, 4347 Flat Sholas Parkway, Decatur, GA 30034.

Tributes

Graham Hardeman

June 23, 1943 - May 23, 2026