Dewey Cleveland Graham

Dewey Cleveland Graham, age 79 of Charlotte died Thursday, July 14, 2016 at home with family following an extended illness. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his wife Patricia in 2013 and his brother Jim Graham. He leaves behind sons, Bruce Edward Graham of Charlotte, and Charles Ray Graham and his wife Evelin of Lake Wylie, SC; daughter Maria Graham St. Clair and her husband Timothy, of Charlotte; grandchildren, Austin, Wynne, Lillian, Eldon, Charles II and Mya Graham, and Nicholas and Connor St. Clair; sister Barbara and her husband Charles Thomas and many nieces, nephews and friends. Mr. Graham was born January 16, 1937 in Charleston, West Virginia to Truman and Doris Harlor Graham. Mr. Graham relocated to Charlotte in 1973 after living in Memphis, TN and Birmingham, AL. In his early years he ventured into business co-owning a gas station, running an ice cream truck and selling cars. He became involved with Shoney's restaurants in Charleston, West Virginia in 1962 and eventually along with Mr. Tracey Faust obtained the franchise for Captain D's for Charlotte in 1973. The local franchise celebrates their 43rd anniversary in business this year. He not only took pride in the business but also in preparing young people to enter the workforce instilling in them a strong work ethic. He would be recognized multiple times for his accomplishments and contributions to the brand he was so passionate about. It was in Charleston, West Virginia where Dewey met the woman who would become his wife; they married on May 29, 1958. Mr. Graham's passions included drag racing, car collecting, and fishing all of which he shared with his children and grandchildren. His greatest legacy is the integrity, passion, respect and moral compass he instilled in his family. The level of character that Mr. Graham possessed afforded him a multitude of professional friends within the restaurant industry. He will be missed by all who knew him during his time on this Earth, may God rest his soul. Visitation for Mr. Graham will be held Tuesday, July 19, 2016 at 10:00AM at Hankins and Whittington Funeral Service, 1111 East Blvd., Charlotte. A service honoring the life of Dewey Graham will follow at 11:00 AM. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care Charlotte Region, 1420, East 7th Street, Charlotte, NC 28204.