Richard Graham

Richard Allen Graham, 81, of Custer, S.D., passed away Dec. 19, 2025, following complications from a broken hip and a brief hospital stay.  
Richard will be cremated.  A memorial will be held in July 2026 Custer.
Richard was born in Lincoln, Neb., June 20, 1944, to Gavin and Stella Graham, and he spent his childhood growing up in the community he would always call home.
Richard proudly served in the National Guard before building a long and steady career as a diesel mechanic where he retired at Eddie’s Truck Sales. For many years he made his home in Rapid City, S.D., but in 2008 he returned to Custer—the place that always felt like home—so he could be closer to the family he loved.
He found joy in the simple rhythms of everyday life—long drives down familiar roads in his red truck or red car, the window rolled down and his elbow resting comfortably on the sill, his daily walks around town in one of his many pairs of boots, and the quiet satisfaction he took in mowing his lawn.
Evenings often found him watching “Gunsmoke” or relaxing to the country music of the ’50s-’70s, comforts that brought him a sense of peace and nostalgia.
Richard had a soft spot for hot dogs, ice cream, a cold can of beer and his cigarettes—little comforts that made him smile.
What people remember most is his sense of humor. He had a chuckle that made you pause, certain he was up to something, and he loved sharing old stories from his past—stories that grew funnier and more treasured each time he told them. Richard’s presence was steady, familiar and full of heart, and those who knew him will carry his memory with deep affection.
Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Gavin and Stella; and sister, Lois Schwab.
Survivors include his sons, Marc (Rhonda) Graham and Joel (Christina) Graham; brother, Warren (Bambi) Graham; brother-in-law, Tedd Schwab; and several cousins, nieces and nephews.
Memorials may be directed to the charity of your choice.
Arrangements have been placed in the care of Chamberlain McColley’s Funeral Home in Custer.