- Date Of Birth: November 21, 1968
- Date Of Death: May 2, 2022
- State: Indiana
Darryl R Graham, 53, died Monday May 2,2022.
He was born November 21, 1968 in Lafayette, IN at Home Hospital to Robert and Mary Elizabeth Graham. Darryl graduated from McCutcheon High School and continued his education in hopes of fulfilling his childhood dream of being a fireman. We use the term “fireman” because as a small boy he talked of nothing else. “Pireman” while the pronunciation was off, the terminology was clear. Our father was a member of the Wea Volunteer Fire Department, and it was an early fascination for Darryl. As was running the black top on 430 South with his lifelong friend Damon Yuill. Stories that will now be left to him to cherish.
Darryl enjoyed a variety of interests in many things old. Old guns, old firetrucks and had a special affinity for old people. Many of which he was able to assist as a member of the Lafayette Fire Department from September 19, 1994, to his retirement April 10, 2021. His relationships built while serving as a firefighter were treasured by him.
Darryl is survived by brothers, Bobby J. Graham of Lafayette and Gerald (Lee Ellen) Graham of Atlanta, IN and a sister, Lesha (David) Henry of Lafayette. Nephews, Justin (Jillian) Henry and Clayton (Jessica) Graham, nieces, Beth (Rob) Oberbeck and Anne Henry. As well as several great nieces and nephews. Aunts, Pauline Graham of East Jordan, MI and Jean (Jerry) Strejc of Cadillac MI.
Recently his struggle with alcohol addiction became a constant and undeniable burden. He had times of great success in his desire to maintain a sober, healthy life. Our family wishes to urge those struggling with any addiction to continue to seek treatment in whatever form is healthy for them. The path to treatment is difficult due to a lack of resources and stigma attached. We encourage everyone to work towards reducing the social stigma around mental illness and addiction recovery in any form.
Addiction knows no boundaries and no human is immune.
The family would like to thank the Lafayette Fire Department for the compassion, support and their commitment to the citizens of Lafayette IN. Also, the many first responders who have cared for the citizens of Tippecanoe County. As a community we are fortunate to have their expertise.
