Eugene Paul Graham Jr.

Eugene Paul Graham Jr. was born on July 15, 1949, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to loving parents Maggie Lean Allen-Graham and Eugene Paul Graham Sr. From an early age, Eugene displayed a natural talent for athletics and a strong sense of determination that would shape his life.

He attended Lincoln High School, where he became a standout athlete, excelling in both basketball and track. Eugene’s leadership and dedication on the court and field were admired by all who knew him. After graduating from high school, he continued his education at UW-River Falls where he majored in Social Studies and competed in basketball and track. After graduation in 1972, he was assigned to teach at North Division, the archrival of his alma mater, Lincoln High School. The North Division family embraced him, and Eugene carried that “Blue Devil Spirit” with him throughout his teaching career.

Eugene began his teaching career in 1972. He was a member of the Social Studies Department from 1972 to 1978; 1973 Assistant Boys Freshmen-Sophomore Basketball Coach, 18-0 record; 1974-1977 Assistant Boys Basketball Coach; 1974-1977 Girls Varsity Basketball Coach; North/Lincoln Alumni Basketball Game Player and Committee Member 1980-2009; Girls Varsity Basketball Coach at Bay View High School, Assistant Track and Field Coach at Bay View High School 2017; Induction into the Wisconsin Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame with 39 years of coaching basketball and 429 victories; Coached Tanisha Boston, Bay View 1991-95. He also worked at Summerfest and MPS for 37 years.

He departed this life on January 25^th, 2025, surrounded by love and cherished memories. Eugene’s life was defined by his kindness, determination, and unwavering support for others. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched through his wisdom, humor, and generosity. He was preceded in death by Maggie Lean Allen-Graham and Eugene Paul Graham Sr.

Eugene is survived by his Wife: Renee Jones-Graham, Daughters: Jasmin Jones and Felicia Graham, Sons: Fred Jones and Terrance (Timbe)- Graham, Sisters: Linda (James) Dove, Denise (William) Moss, Danielle (Merquides) Velez, Brothers: Sydney Graham, Randall (Sharon) Benjamin, Robert Shumpert, Grandchildren: Chimaree Mccune, Kayden Jones, Kingston Jones, Camden Gail, Tyranne Graham, Terrell Graham, Latrell Graham, Myrical Fairfield, Cyrus Fairfield, Two Great-Grandchildren: Ace Culpepper and Bentley Culpepper, Aunt: Mamie Thurman, Uncles: Alphonso Allen and Eddie Allen, Bestfriend Jim Jones, and a host of loving family members and friends.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, February 15, at Krause Funeral Home, 9000 West Capitol Drive, in Milwaukee, from 10:00 AM until the time of Service at 12:00 PM. Interment at Graceland Cemetery.

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