of Little Rock, AR
May 17, 1926 - October 21, 2019
Jim D. Graddy, 93, of Little Rock, Arkansas passed away on October 21, 2019. He was born in Morganton, Arkansas, May 17, 1926 to the late Cecil and Lena Graddy. On October 16, 1943, he married Vanteen Parish and remained her devoted husband for 76 years.
He enlisted in the United States Army, serving in both World War II and in the Korean conflict. He graduated from the University of Arkansas in 1950.
Jim enjoyed a long career in the Farmers Home Administration, the rural development agency of the United States Department of Agriculture, serving as county supervisor in several Arkansas counties and ultimately serving as Rural Housing Specialist in the office of the State Director.
A faithful member of Baptist churches wherever his career moved him, Jim served as a deacon, Sunday school teacher, and Sunday school director in the First Baptist Church of Marianna, Baring Cross Baptist Church of North Little Rock, and the First Baptist Church of Sherwood. A staunch advocate for Sunday school ministry in local churches, he often enjoyed attending and leading training events for volunteer Sunday school leaders. He also served on the Executive Board of The North Pulaski Baptist Association.
He is survived by his wife; daughters, Janada (Buddy) Barnett and Becky (Leslie) Willis; grandchildren, Lee (Elizabeth) Barnett, Andy (Jennifer Folkers) Barnett, Jim (Alicia Gerfen) Willis, John Willis, Rebekah (Michael) Wallace, Kathryn (Todd) Breeding; two sisters, Ann (Floyd) Hickerson and Jean (Lloyd) Linn; and 10 great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, October 25, 2019 at 1:30 PM at First Baptist Church of Sherwood, 701 Country Club Road. A private graveside service will be held at Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in North Little Rock, Arkansas.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Ukraine Challenge International, 315 Hermlee Street, Hot Springs, Arkansas 71913.
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7 Condolence(s)
Michael Graddy
Monday, October 28, 2019
Sorry for your loss. I am deeply involved in Graddy family history and, if possible, would like to contact you at some point to establish my relationship to your loved one. I can be contacted at the listed email address.
Linda Graddy Stanley
Friday, October 25, 2019
I am so sorry to hear of the death of Mr. Graddy. He was evidently a fine man. My brother, Michael Baker Graddy, formerly of NLR, now of Aiken, SC, would have loved to have met him and his family. Obviously, the name is not a common one and we, of the same name, must be kin to each other.
May our Heavenly Father give rest to his soul.
God bless you and your family.
Linda Graddy Stanley
Candy Hickerson
Friday, October 25, 2019
I was sad to hear of JD’s passing, such a sweet gentle soul who had a smile that would light up a room! Praying for you all today as you simply say, see you later, as we know we will all see him again one day in heaven. May the sweet memories now become the treasures that we hold close to our hearts. Love you all
Donna L Rutledge
Wednesday, October 23, 2019
I am so sorry to hear about Jim. I have fond memories of growing up with him in Marianna. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Sheila (Barnett) Javaux
Wednesday, October 23, 2019
I am so very sorry to hear of Mr. Jim's passing. I have very fond memories of our visits together and will always remember his wise and gentle soul. My prayers are with you all. Love to you all, Sheila and family.
Wanda Doyel clark
Tuesday, October 22, 2019
Such sweet memories of our days in Marianna and First Baptist.
Doris Perkins
Tuesday, October 22, 2019
Mrs Graddy and Family,
I know this is a glorious home-going for Mr Graddy. I worked with him for many years at Farmers Home and he was my go to when problems seemed too big for me. He was always a gentleman and a comfort to those around him. He was my friend and I will miss him. He was certainly one of a kind.
My Love to the family
Doris