It is with regret that we announce the passing of Mr. Joe Edd Graham, Jr., age 76, of Spring Hill, TN. Joe was born on May 24, 1945, in Lincoln County, TN, to the late Joe Edd Graham, Sr., and Charlotte Johnson Graham. He passed away on May 20, 2022, at Franklin Wellness and Rehab, surrounded by his loving family.
Coach Joe was a 1963 graduate of Central High School in Fayetteville and was a star football player, which took him to the University of Tennessee, where he continued his outstanding playing career. He graduated with his master’s degree from UT Knoxville in 1968. Mr. Graham enjoyed fox hunting and cheering on UT and the TN Titan Football teams. Coach Joe had a long coaching carrier with Columbia Academy, Columbia Central High School, and Cornersville High School. Through his 32-year career, Joe was much more than a coach, he was a mentor, leader, and friend to everyone. After retirement, Mr. Graham enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, and cheering them on at their sporting events.
Survivors include his wife, Valerie Reed Graham; sons, Cody (Ashlea) Graham and Reed (Abby) Graham; grandchildren, Taitam, Jackson, Layton, and Maddie Graham all of Spring Hill, TN; sister, Ruth (Bob) Selden of Edge Water, FL; cousin, Tommy (Jane) Graham of Fayetteville; sister-in-law, Roxanne (Mike) Moyers of Fayetteville; brother-in-law, Jeff (Lisa) Reed of San Antonio, TX, and brother-in-law, Scott (Nasaria) Reed of Houston, TX; and numerous extended family, friends, and teammates. In addition to his parents, Coach Joe was preceded in death by his infant son, Joe Edd Graham, III; and a brother-in-law, David Reed.
A life celebration is planned for 3 PM on Saturday, May 28, 2022, at The Bridge Church (3005 Parkfield Loop S., Spring Hill, TN 37174). Bro. Tommy Graham and Mike McCown will officiate. Visitation with the family will be from 1 PM until 3 PM on Saturday at the church. The family request that attendees on Saturday wear orange, white or something bright.
Memorials may be made to Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, Office of Development, P.O. Box 290369, Nashville, TN 37229-0369.
Higgins Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Joe Edd Graham, Jr. Online condolences may be left for the family of Coach Joe at www.higginsfh.com.