Back to Obituaries Strong & Jones Funeral Home, Inc. | Tallahassee, FL

Mr. Willie "Billy" Norman Graham

05/09/1945 - 05/20/2025

Obituary For Mr. Willie "Billy" Norman Graham

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Mr. Willie Norman Graham.

Pastor Willie Norman Graham (known to many as “Billy”) transitioned from his earthly to his heavenly home on Tuesday, May 20, 2025. He was born on May 9, 1945, in Lake Park, Florida, to the late Leroy and Inez Graham. As a youngster, Billy was a member of Hurst Chapel African Methodist Episcopal (A.M.E.) Church, and as a young adult, he transferred his membership to Payne Chapel A.M.E. Church, both in West Palm Beach, Florida. An ordained minister, Rev. Billy served as the Pastor of St. John Primitive Church in Thomasville, Georgia, for twenty-five years.

At the time of his demise, he had been married to his childhood sweetheart, the former Pamela Webster, since 1970. In addition to his wife, Rev. Billy is survived by his daughter, Michelle; three grandchildren, Mia, Benjamin, and Bryce; two great grandchildren, A’Mya and Kendrin; several godchildren; three brothers, Leroy, LeeNorris (Paula), Raymond (Dorothy), Kirk (Karen),and Gregory (Tracey); two sisters, Irene Fisher and Mary Graham; sister-in law, Valerie Graham; brother-in-law, John R. Webster; and a host of relatives and friends. Two brothers, Robert (Valerie) and Charles preceded him in death.

Rev. Billy diligently refined and perfected his diverse talents, which he regarded as God-given, beginning with his athletic prowess as starting quarterback for Roosevelt High School, where he was a graduate of the Class of 1962, and progressing to the publication of his recent book, Kidd (2025). He also excelled as a machinist, community activist, entrepreneur, scholar, coach, instructor, photographer, and author. Along his life’s journey, Rev. Billy completed a tour of duty in Vietnam as a corporal in the United States Marine Corps and service as military policeman in Barstow, California; employment at Pratt and Whitney as a machinist; partnership in business at Dunbar Paint and Body Shop and owner/proprietor of Billy Graham’s Paint & Body Shop, Inc.; co-founder and President of The Progressive Young Men’s Club, which provided assistance to needy families in West Palm Beach; and starting quarterback for the Gold Coast Barracudas, a semi-pro football team. Subsequently, he served as a coach for Little League Football at Tallahassee Parks and Recreation for seventeen years.

Reverend Billy distinguished himself through a multifaceted career that encompassed both ministry and education. He earned a degree in English Education in 1981 and later taught 8th grade Language Arts. Additionally, Rev. Billy earned a Master of Applied Social Sciences degree with a concentration in Political Science in 2003 and advanced study in English. He also instructed Oral Communications to cadets in the Army ROTC Enhanced Skills Program and served as an adjunct instructor of Orientation and Freshman English at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. During his induction into the Roosevelt High School Hall of FAME in Sports, Reverend Billy emphasized his firm conviction that education is the fundamental key to unlocking all opportunities. His life truly exemplified the benefits of pursuing both a vocation and an avocation. Celebration of Reverend Billy requires that we rejoice in knowing that he is now at peace, affirming his belief in the Lord Jesus Christ whom he served so faithfully.

Psalm 90:10

The days of our lives are threescore years and ten; And if by reason of strength they are eighty years, yet their boast is only labor and sorrow; For it is soon cut off, and we fly away.

Memorial service will be 11:00 A.M. Saturday, June 28, 2025 at St. John M.B. Church.


Condolences & Tributes

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ADRIENNE HOWARD sent Peace & Serenity Dishgarden for Mr. Willie "Billy" Norman Graham - June 27, 2025

Send flowers for Mr. Willie "Billy" Norman Graham

Lifting Michelle and family in prayer as they mourn the loss of her dad. I didn't know Mr. Graham, but, based upon the stories I've heard of his time on the highest of seven hills, he was a good man with a great legacy. May God's love bring you peace in your time of sorrow.🧡💚

Neika Berry

On behalf of my son Justice — your legacy lives on through the family you've raised with love. Thank you for being part of the village that shaped his godfather Bryce. Rest in peace.

Gabrielle Wise-Brice (Brie)

You were deeply loved and will never be forgotten. May your spirit rest peacefully, and may your family find strength in the beautiful memories you've left behind. Holding everyone in my thoughts during this time.

Gabrielle Wise-Brice (Brie)

My condolences to you Michelle and Bryce. Sending you both love and strength during this difficult time.

Sabrena Blue Cooper

Dear Michelle,I was deeply saddened to hear about your father's passing.Please accept my heartfelt condolences. I can only imagine how difficult this time must be for you and your family. May you find comfort in the love and support of those around you and may your father Rev. Billy Graham's memory be a source of peace and strength. If there's anything I can do, please don't hesitate to let me know. I'm praying for your peace and understanding. Sending love and hugs to you, Bryce Mia & Ben. With sincere sympathy Bev Elliott-Morrison & Family ❤️🙏🏽

Beverly Elliott Morrison

We are so sorry for your loss. We are praying for you.

Greg and Scynthia Davis

We are sorry for your family's loss. Prayers for the family.

Mike & Debbie Bergner

To Billy's Daughter, Michelle Grand Children, Brothers and Sisters. I extend my deepest most Heartfelt Condolences are with you and your Family during your time of bereavement. love ❤ Auntie Val

Valerie Graham

Pam with ❤ heart felt Sympathy.. when you loose someone you Love 💘 becomes a memory the memory becomes your treasure 💞Valerie Graham

Valerie Graham

I hope that,even though your world is so dark right now. Your soon able to see some light in the memories you had with your love one.

Darnell young loy

To the family of our beloved Billy Graham, my Godfather. To his wife, Pam, his sisters, his brothers, his children, grandchildren, and all the family. We send our sincere condolences and prayers to you all. We pray that God's hope, God's peace, God's joy and God's love will comfort your hearts. We pray that God strength will be made perfect in you in this your time of weakness. We love you, and we are continuing to pray in Jesus name. Leon and Deborah

Leon and Deborah Smith

My sincere condolences to the Graham Family, especially Gregory, My Class of 1975 Classmate. I pray for peace in your hearts and also that the family will find comfort in Gospel Scriptures, "I Thessalonians 4:13-18."

Audie B Wilson Sr

Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

Strong & Jones Funeral Home, Inc. | Tallahassee, FL

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