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James C. Graham II

March 9, 1971 - May 9, 2026
Visitation
Krause Funeral Home Milwaukee
9000 West Capitol Drive
Milwaukee, WI 53222
Saturday 5/23, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Service
Krause Funeral Home Milwaukee
9000 West Capitol Drive
Milwaukee, WI 53222
Saturday 5/23, 12:00 pm

James C. Graham II was born on March 9, 1971, in Milwaukee, WI to James C. Graham and LaVonda L. Graham (Humphrey). He spent his formative years in Milwaukee, surrounded by the love of family and friends. 

 

James attended Golda Meir School, Morse Middle School for the Gifted and Talented, Riverside University High School, and he graduated from South Milwaukee High School in 1989. After high school, James worked several different jobs while earning credits at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and ITT Technical Institute. He chose to pursue a career in the sheet metal trade, because he believed that the analytical and problem-solving aspects of the field and the diverse paths offered would be an excellent fit for his strong intellectual curiosity. James went from apprentice to journeyman, constantly expanding his knowledge and skills while working on projects like the construction of Miller Park and the installation, maintenance, and repair of HVAC systems for major corporations, small businesses, and residential clients throughout Wisconsin and northern Illinois. James learned to appreciate the value and power of employee unions from his father and was a proud member of United Association, Local 601 – Steamfitters and HVAC Service Technicians. He was glad to give back to his trade by training new apprentices while continuing to grow his own expertise.

 

In 1997, James met Monique Lewis and they began building a life together. They were married on August 30, 2002. Their union produced three wonderful children – James III, Miles, and Lauren. James believed that his family was his finest accomplishment. Loving, supporting, guiding, encouraging, and helping the people he loved was the foundation of every decision he made and he was dedicated to family above everything.

 

James worked hard and played hard. He loved music, art, sports, gaming, and travel. He enjoyed being on the beach and spent time in Texas, Florida, Puerto Rico, Mexico, and Hawaii. Above all, James cherished time spent with family and friends, sharing stories and jokes, debating current events, learning about a wide variety of subjects, making and appreciating music and art, cheering and cussing at his kids’ sporting events, hosting celebrations at his home, supporting others through difficulties and sorrows, and helping the people he loved in any way that he could.

 

He was preceded in death by his mother-in-law Lynda J. Franklin, his father-in-law LaMarr Franklin, his brother-in-law Shannon Smith Sr., his maternal and paternal grandparents, and his grandparents-in-law. James is survived by his wife Monique N. Graham (Lewis); his three children, James C. Graham III, Miles A. Graham, and Lauren N. Graham; his parents, James C. Graham and LaVonda L. Graham (Humphrey); his siblings Eloise “Spring” Humphrey, Anthony (Cookie) Crider, Todd Crider, Cherita Graham, and Finicia Graham MD; and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

 

James C. Graham II was an extraordinary human being: a husband, father, son, brother, nephew, cousin, uncle, and friend. He was so much more than can be written here. We are lucky to have known him and we are all better for it. James was deeply loved and will forever be missed.

 

Visitation from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, with service at 12:00 PM, on Saturday, May 23, 2026 at Krause Funeral Home, 9000 West Capitol Drive, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Close-up portrait of a man with a short beard and mustache, wearing a black collared shirt, tilted against a blue textured background.
Man posing with a large gold trophy in front of a green hedge wall.
Two people pose and dance at a retro-themed party with a DJ in the background, arms raised in celebration.
Two boys sit at a dining table with food and condiments, one wearing glasses and a surprised expression as they pose for the photo.
Smiling man giving a thumbs-up toward the camera against a black background.
A group of seven people—three adults, three youths, and a small child—posing together in a living room with a brick fireplace and circular mirror behind them.
Man with an Afro and sunglasses kneels beside a toddler in striped overalls outdoors.
Group of five people posing for a signing day photo at Ball State, with a seated athlete wearing a Ball State shirt and a name card on the table.
A group of five people posing outdoors for a photo: a woman in a red top kneels near a bicycle while four friends stand around, smiling and wearing casual white tops and light-colored clothing.
Children on a chain-suspended swing ride at an amusement park; a man watches from behind the seats.
Three men in formal attire pose together at an indoor event; left wears black shirt and patterned tie, middle in a tan vest and striped tie, right in a white shirt with a paisley tie.
Five people pose indoors for a graduation photo: two men in back, three women in front, one holding a red folder with a diploma, all smiling.
Large African American family posing for a studio group portrait in festive red, white, and black outfits, with adults and children smiling together.
Mother and young child share a close, affectionate pose in a sepia-toned portrait; caption reads ‘And with your love & support…’
Three young children sit close together on a sofa, smiling at the camera; left in red, middle with arms crossed and Afro, right in striped shirt with green overalls and glasses.
Smiling family portrait with four children and two adults in formal attire, posing together indoors.
Couple smiling and embracing each other indoors, woman with curly hair in a dark dress and necklace, man in a striped shirt with a short beard, neon artwork in the background
Smiling man in an orange polo raises both hands at a restaurant table with a small birthday cake and candle in front of him.
Young man in a light gray suit and dark bow tie at a nighttime formal event, looking at the camera.
Close-up selfie of a smiling couple indoors: woman with curly hair and red lipstick on the left, man with a beard on the right, hotel hallway in background with a 'Hotel Staff Only' door sign.
Group of adults and children posing in front of a bright carousel with painted horses at an amusement park.
A group selfie in a kitchen: smiling woman in the center, teenagers and adults around her, with a shirtless man on the right sticking out his tongue.
Collage of a man with kids posing for selfies in a school cafeteria or classroom setting in several photos.
Close-up of a man with a gray beard looking upward against a black background.
Selfie in a hospital room: man with glasses and stubble in a maroon sweater beside a patient wearing a blue surgical cap.
A man and young boy take a close selfie in a classroom or community center, smiling with others at tables in the background.
Group of four posing outdoors for a graduation photo: two graduates in blue gowns and caps, flanked by a woman and a man in smart casual clothing, plus another man holding a rolled diploma.
Group of five people posing together in a hallway, one seated on the floor in front wearing black and gray athletic wear.
Couple in formal attire posing for a photo at a Girl Friends event backdrop crowning a gala moment.
Two smiling men pose together in a brick-walled restaurant; one wears a camo jacket, the other a black jacket.
Two people in formal attire pose for a selfie in a backstage area, smiling at the camera.
Person outdoors wearing a Maryland Terrapins shirt with the terrapin mascot, a black jacket, and a face covering to display the logo.
Man in a dark shirt wearing a colorful sombrero sits at a table with a lit candle and party balloons in the background.
Five people sit around a round wooden table indoors, wearing white shirts with a red heart graphic and smiling at the camera.
A man and three kids pose for a selfie at a casual restaurant table with drinks, cups, and menus visible.
Three people pose for a close-up selfie indoors: a man on the right and two boys in red shirts, with the center boy showing a geometric hair design.
Two men wrestle or restrain each other at a dining table, one gripping the other with an intense expression; a green bottle and various items sit on the table in front of them.
Three adults posing for a photo against a blue backdrop: a man in a gray suit seated front, flanked by a man holding a magazine and a woman holding a program, all smiling.
Three people pose together with a 2019 State Champion Boys Basketball Division 2 trophy plaque, celebrating a win.
Man in a green shirt and shorts leaning on a metal outdoor chair on a concrete basketball court, with a hoop in the background.
Five people posing together in a kitchen, all smiling at the camera.
Four adults posing together at a social event, smiling for the camera.
Group of diverse friends standing together outdoors in a park, posing for a photo on the grass.
Smiling couple posing indoors with red and white balloons in the background; woman in a red sweater and white shirt, man in a dark coat, both making a triangle with their hands.
Three diners pose for a photo at a formal restaurant table with wine glasses and a bread basket.
Two men pose on indoor stairs wearing MSU sports apparel, flashing peace signs at the camera
Young girl in Nicollet Knights jersey (number 4) standing with a man in a blue shirt and black jacket in a gymnasium.
A man and girl take a close-up selfie in a gymnasium, smiling and hugging, with a basketball court in the background.]
Man with two smiling children posing in a school cafeteria at a round table with a green wall in the background.
Man and young girl smiling at the camera in a classroom, with brick walls and children’s artwork in the background.
Family of five posing in a kitchen, smiling at the camera.
Two people smile for a selfie courtside at a basketball arena, with fans in the stands and players warming up on the court behind them, Bucks champions shirts visible.
Two men taking a close-up selfie indoors, wearing dark jerseys; one man points at the camera with a peace sign while smiling.
Group of four people posing on a basketball court in an arena, wearing MSU gear and smiling at the camera with empty stands behind them.
Family portrait: father and mother with three children smiling and posing together in a studio setting.
Three children standing indoors, smiling for the camera; two wear dark uniforms with white belts, center child in a light shirt with a rainbow graphic.
Man in a navy polo speaks on a large black smartphone clipped to his ear at home, with a wooden cabinet and trophies in the background.
Two people ride bumper cars in an indoor amusement area, a man in sunglasses driving a black car beside a child in a red-and-blue car with yellow streams on top.
Smiling young man in a patterned knit sweater photographed against a blue backdrop (school portrait).
Group of four adults posing together in a lounge area, smiling at the camera, with a couch, round coffee table, and modern artwork in the background.
Smiling woman in a red jacket and a man in a teal Joker shirt pose together in a contemporary lounge area with beige couches and artwork behind them.
Two men pose with arms crossed in a home kitchen, one in maroon sweats and white sneakers, the other in a blue long-sleeve shirt and gray sweatpants with black slides.
Group of people in formal attire posing on a stage; two women in light dresses hold bouquets, others in dark suits.
Two people sit across from each other at a restaurant table, celebrating a birthday with a plate that says ‘Happy Birthday’ and a card on the table nearby.
Four adults in formal black-tie attire posing together in a home setting with a bookshelf and decorative items in the background.
Five people stand together indoors in a cafeteria, posing for a group photo and smiling at the camera.
Group of five people posing in front of a colorful aquarium backdrop with fish and coral reefs behind them.
Two friends pose for a selfie in a cafe; woman with braids and sunglasses on her head smiles at the camera, man with a durag and beard beside her.
Boy and man posing for a selfie indoors; the man wears a dog filter with ears and nose over his face
Smiling man in a maroon shirt taking a selfie in a room with pastel walls and wallpaper border to the ceiling
Close-up portrait of a man with short dark hair and light facial stubble, wearing a brown jacket with a furry collar and looking at the camera.
Smiling man in a purple hat and round sunglasses holding a wrapped gift in festive green and red paper.
Man in red shirt with two children, arms around them, smiling in a residential driveway outdoors.
Healthcare worker in blue scrubs and a disposable hairnet taking a mirror selfie in a hallway, holding a smartphone.
Two people pose for a selfie in a tropical restaurant/bar with wicker chairs and a bar in the background.
Couple on a boat, man smiling in the background and woman in the foreground, with a large bridge over water.
Close-up of a man with a full beard and mustache looking slightly to the left, neutral expression, dark shirt, wooden background.
Close-up of a man with a gray beard in a blue collared shirt inside a vehicle, looking at the camera with a serious expression.
Man sitting with two children at a cafeteria table, smiling for the camera.
Three people posing for a selfie in a school cafeteria: an adult man on the left and two smiling kids in blue jerseys, with a colorful banner and wall photos behind them.
Man and boy playing basketball in a driveway, both mid-air as they contest a shot near a chain-link fence.
Smiling couple sitting close together at an outdoor event, wearing summery outfits and drinks on the table in front of them
Two men posing together at a school event, one in a light blue shirt and the other in a black suit with a gold bow tie and blue boutonniere.
Four men pose together indoors, arms around each other, in a living room doorway setting; diverse ages, casual athletic wear.
Two men take a casual selfie indoors; the man on the left wears a black durag and has a beard, the man on the right has white facial cream on his nose and cheeks.
Three people posing for a selfie: a man in a dark shirt on the right and two boys in front left, one making a surprised face.
A family of five taking a selfie in a living room, smiling at the camera (man with beard on the right).
Two people wear sunglasses and warm hats, smiling at the camera inside a car.
Close-up selfie of a man and two children making funny faces at a baseball stadium, with green bleachers and spectators in the background.
Three people lean in close for a low-light selfie, smiling at the camera in a dim room.
Man and young boy taking a selfie in a dimly lit indoor hallway/similar setting.
Family group photo with Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus, two young boys, and a man posing indoors.
Selfie in a gym: bearded man in front and a man with braided hair seated in purple bleachers, scoreboard and banners visible in the background.
Family of five posing together in formal attire in front of a wood-paneled wall at a event place.
Two people smiling in a woodworking/art studio with shelves and sculptures on a table in front of a window.
Smiling man in a blue shirt sits on a couch with a baby on his lap and another man in white beside them, all posing closely together on a sofa.
Several children sit on a brown carpet indoors, hugging and smiling, with a metal-framed swing set behind them.
Four people pose outdoors after a graduation ceremony: two graduates in light blue gowns and caps, flanked by a woman in black and a man in a blue shirt.
Man in a light blue shirt and white pants, wearing sunglasses, holds a rolled diploma, standing next to a graduate in a light blue cap and gown with a red dress and braided hair; both smile outdoors with a crowd in the background.
Man with short hair and gray beard seated in a restaurant, resting his fist by his mouth and looking at the camera.
Black-and-white portrait of a smiling man with a beard and short hair, eyes closed, wearing a dark jacket.
Man and woman seated at a table, holding hands and smiling at a formal social event.
Group portrait of Maryland Knights basketball players and coach standing behind a table with a trophy and a banner that says NICOLLET KNIGHTS; a basketball, a cap, and a sign sit on the table.
African American man in a black tuxedo and bow tie posing at a formal gala, with others in evening wear in the background.
Family group photo at a birthday party: four smiling children gathered around a cake on a table, indoors against a yellow wall.
Young boy in a blue sweater cutting a white frosted birthday cake while family members watch nearby at a dining table.
Three children stand together smiling beside a birthday cake on a table indoors at a party.
Two smiling guests sit side by side at a banquet table; woman with a green lanyard and a man in a geometric orange–brown shirt pose for a photo, with drinks and a phone on the table and a buffet area in the background.
Two people take a close-up selfie outdoors, a man with a black durag and beard beside a woman, both wearing 'I Voted' stickers on their foreheads/surfaces.
Three people pose for a mirror selfie: a man in a green hoodie with two girls on either side, all smiling.
A group of friends sit around a restaurant table, taking a group selfie with birthday cake and drinks visible on the table.
Man in a dark shirt wearing a colorful sombrero, celebrating a birthday at a wooden table with black balloons reading 50 in the background.
A smiling couple in formal wear seated at a banquet table during a gala event, with place settings and glasses around them.
Chat screenshot on a dark iPhone interface: a bearded man in a blue shirt seated in a vehicle is shown in a shared photo, with messages above and below reading 'Yeah, yeah, yeah! Yo Boi outchea FREEESH!' and 'You see me.'
Two people wearing face masks take a low-angle selfie in a gym or indoor arena; a man in a red shirt with a large white-yellow M stands on the left, a woman in a black jacket with sunglasses on her head sits on the right.
Man and two children pose for a selfie, all smiling at the camera; a girl with beaded braids rests her head on his shoulder while another child is nearby.
Polaroid photo of a bearded man with a smiling young girl indoors at a gathering, handwritten caption visible at the top
Two people stand on a sidewalk in front of a Black Lives Matter sign on a building; man in a gray T‑shirt and camo shorts, woman with a backpack.
Two men pose for a selfie indoors, one with his arm around the other's shoulder, birthday banner in the background.
Two men outdoors near a chain-link fence; one in a black t-shirt looks upward while a boy in blue behind him raises an arm.
Person in a black hooded cloak crouches in a doorway, looking toward the camera in a cluttered room.
Graduate in cap and gown smiling with a man in a gray suit outside a brick building at a graduation celebration.
Close-up of a man laughing with mouth wide open against a black background, showing teeth and dimples.
Two men posing for a photo indoors, one wearing a navy Knight Nation shirt and gray pants, the other in a black zip hoodie and green shorts.
A diverse group of people sits in gym bleachers, with a man taking a selfie in the foreground and others smiling behind him at a community event.
Indoor social gathering with several people standing and sitting; a dartboard on the wall and a person wearing novelty blue 3D glasses in the center.
Six men in black tuxedos with boutonnieres pose together in a church aisle for a wedding photo.
Group of men posing together outdoors in a backyard, smiling and wearing colorful shirts, with a house and trees in the background.
Five men in suits posing together on a rooftop terrace with modern glass buildings in the background.
Two men posing and smiling at a dimly lit party; one holds a glass with a lemon slice while the other gestures with his hands.
Man outdoors in a snowy yard, wearing a black and red beanie and blue shirt, frost on his beard.
Smiling African American couple posing indoors, woman with curly hair in a dark blazer and necklace, man with blue shirt and brown jacket; trophies on a shelf in the background.
Five men standing together indoors, posing for a group photo with casual outfits and smiles, a bar area and stools visible in the background.
Couple smiling and embracing at an outdoor picnic, seated at a table with drinks and friends in the background.
Portrait of a man with a short beard and mustache, wearing a black jacket, posed against a cloudy sky background.
Family of four smiling for a birthday photo, sitting at a table with a cake and presents in front.
Three men posing together for a photo in a doorway, casual shirts (blue, orange, black) and relaxed smiles.
A four-panel collage: orange juice with oranges, a block of yellow cheese, a carton of white eggs, and a man holding a bottle of sparkling wine.
Group of smiling children in a faded vintage studio portrait, wearing light-colored clothing against a beige backdrop.
Man in a black tuxedo and bow tie posing at a formal event, with other guests in evening wear in the background inside a glass-walled venue.
Bride in a white dress holds a bouquet, standing with the groom in a tuxedo and bridesmaids on a stage during a wedding pose on the left side of the image.
Young child lounging on a dark brown leather sofa with arm behind the head, relaxed pose.
Bride and groom sharing a kiss on their wedding day, the bride holding a white bouquet with red accents in foreground.
Toddler wearing oversized gray headphones and a blue onesie, standing indoors and gripping a wooden railing.
Group of young men posing together in a casual room, leaning in and smiling for the photo.
Close-up portrait of a man with a gray beard and short hair against a blue textured background.
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Visitation
Krause Funeral Home Milwaukee
9000 West Capitol Drive
Milwaukee, WI 53222
Map
Saturday 5/23, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Service
Krause Funeral Home Milwaukee
9000 West Capitol Drive
Milwaukee, WI 53222
Map
Saturday 5/23, 12:00 pm
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James C. Graham II was born on March 9, 1971, in Milwaukee, WI to James C. Graham and LaVonda L. Graham (Humphrey). He spent his formative years in Milwaukee, surrounded by the love of family and friends.    James attended Golda Meir School, Morse Middle School for the Gifted and Talented, Riverside University High School,Continue Reading

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Tree 7 trees were planted in memory of James Graham
Kelly Pitts and Sarah Tunstill left a message on May 23, 2026:
In honor of James Graham. May these trees stand as a living reminder of a life well lived and deeply loved. Holding you deep in our hearts.
Donna “Dee” Page left a message on May 25, 2026:
Sending heartfelt prayers and condolences to the Graham family and peaceful journey to our dear friend JG. May you find comfort in the precious memories shared and the life that remains.
Anonymous left a message on May 24, 2026:
Sending love and strength to the Graham family
A memorial tree was planted in memory of James Graham . Plant a Tree
Tarsha Harrison left a message on May 23, 2026:
Sending Prayers and Condolences to the Graham Family.
Rita Roquemore left a message on May 22, 2026:
Niki, You have me and my family's deepest sympathy in your loss.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Anita Tucker left a message on May 22, 2026:
My sincere condolences to you and your family. I will lift you all up in prayer as you get through this difficult time.
Merchants Refrigeration & Mechanical left a message on May 22, 2026:
Please accept our most heartfelt sympathies for your loss. Our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.
White Designer's Choice was purchased for the family of James Graham by Merchants Refrigeration & Mechanical. Send Flowers
A tree was also planted in memory of James Graham
From your ST Family left a message on May 22, 2026:
To the most supportive friend that did so without looking for recognition. Just let his actions speak for him. Long Live JG. You are 1 of 1.
Magnificent Life Spray was purchased for the family of James Graham by From your ST Family. Send Flowers
A tree was also planted in memory of James Graham
Razina Tolbert left a message on May 21, 2026:
James was truly a one-of-a-kind human being and I feel blessed to have known him.Sending heartfelt prayers and my deepest condolences to the family.
A memorial tree was planted in memory of James Graham . Plant a Tree
Vernetta McDowell left a message on May 21, 2026:
My deepest condolences to your family and all who knew and loved James. I am praying for you all and will continue to lift you up in prayer.
Trent, Flo, Trinity, and Mason left a message on May 21, 2026:
Condolences to you and the family. We continue to uplift all of you in prayer. Much love,
Simply Elegant Spathiphyllum was purchased for the family of James Graham by Trent, Flo, Trinity, and Mason. Send Flowers
Reynolds Consumer Products - Reserved for Monique Graham left a message on May 21, 2026:
The Reynolds Louisville, KY Plant is thinking of you and your family during this difficult time.
Lovely One Spathiphyllum Plant was purchased for the family of James Graham by Reynolds Consumer Products - Reserved for Monique Graham. Send Flowers
Gervis Myles left a message on May 21, 2026:
On the few occasions we spoke it was meaningful. Very Meaningful. Knowing that will never happen again for some reason stings on another level I've never experienced. His loss has been felt by me and so many others. With that said, my utmost condolences to the family of this brother. Love Gervis and Kathy Myles
Garry Armstrong Jr left a message on May 21, 2026:
JG loved his family and was passionate about people being treated fairly. He was naturally curious, jovial and stern about all aspects in life. In my random conversations with him, it was never the same topic whether it was in person or online. JG is truly a one of kind spirit that will greatly impact us all in as he watches us from another realm. If you listen closely, he may even still hold you accountable if you veer off track, same way he would in his physical presence. You will be missed here JG, but we are going to hold you in our hearts forever.
Catrina Crane left a message on May 21, 2026:
People like JG are hard to come by. His love of life and those that give it purpose, his recognition of people, and his ability to create laughter where there was instability are just a few of his attributes I was able to experience. God please give grace to all that loved him as they navigate this great loss.
Krause Funeral Home & Cremation Services left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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