FOLEY – Bobby Gene Graham, whose career included service as the Foley building official, Foley Housing Authority director and city fire inspector, died Tuesday, April 23 following a long struggle with dementia.

During his service to the city, Graham earned numerous certifications and recognitions. He was also a longtime member of the Foley Volunteer Fire Department and the Foley Planning Commission.

A native of Dos Palos, California, Graham moved to Foley in 1975.

After graduating from Dos Palos High School and Merced County Community College, he spent more than 20 years serving around the world as a radio operator, crew airman, KC-95 and 135 tanker pilot and SAC instructor in the U.S. Air Force before retiring as a major in 1970.

He received multiple commendations during his military career, including the World War II Victory Medal, Vietnam Service Medal and Combat Readiness Medal. 

After moving to Foley, Graham worked as night auditor at the Alabama Gulf State Park.

Outside of work, Graham enjoyed boating, fishing and golf, the 100’s Dance Club, Foley Sports, Inc. and Foley Lions Club, as well as the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars. He was president of the Gulf Shores Golf Club.

He served as a municipal election official, mentored and consulted on building and code projects in various lower Alabama communities, all while traveling with his wife, Juanita, to associated meetings and reunions. 

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Foley native, Juanita Roberts Graham, daughters Teri G. Westbrook and Kathryn A. Graham, sons Michael K. and Kenneth O. Graham; grandsons Christopher, Jason, Logan and Nathaniel; granddaughters Victoria and Brianna; great-grandchildren Ethan, Ronan, and, arriving soon, Olivia.

 He was preceded in death by his parents, Elsie E. Fishbaugh and Lawrence Young “Pete” Graham, siblings Lawrence Young “Jiggs” Graham and Elsie Mae Pyne and grandchildren Erin Nicole Graham and Matthew Garrett Graham.

Burial with military honors will take place at Pine Rest Cemetery in Foley on Tuesday, April 30 at 3 p.m. The family will receive guests from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Wolfe-Bayview Funeral Home, 2551 South McKenzie St. in Foley. 

The Graham family would like to thank friends and family members for their morale-boosting support throughout his last few years, particularly Linda Kiser who provided invaluable care and assistance. They also wish to thank the team from Community Hospice for their help.

In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested in Bob Graham’s memory to the Foley Fire Department, Lions Club International, or the veterans’ charity of one’s choosing. 

Arrangements are by Wolf-Bayview Funeral Homes and Crematory.