Rev. Marvin Graham Sr.

Marvin Lewis Graham Sr. of Guilderland NY was called to be with the Lord on June 21st 2016. He was born on January 4th 1934 in Shubuta Mississippi to the loving late Lucius and Pinkie Graham of Mississippi.
Marvin Graham moved to the Albany NY area in September 1952. He was a hardworking man with many talents. Working for many places starting with Albany Casting Company and retiring from NY State Education Department of professional licensing. He helped build many of the areas structures such as The empire plaza locally known as "The egg". The most significant building Marvin worked was the building of the Land of the Living to guide others on the journey to be like Christ. During the course of his life he has provided clergy services to every major hospital and jail in the Albany area. Marvin received his calling to Christ in 1967 at St. Johns Church of God and Christ. He was baptized with the Holy Spirit in 1967 on 71st South Ferry Street. He was ordained by Bishop OM Kelly of NY City and called to ministry by Pastor Lee Jackson in Hudson NY being appointed as Elder Jackson's assistant pastor. He joined Grace Temple in 1975 under the leadership of Pastor Elder Curtis Folks and later would be the successor (Pastor) of Grace Temple.
Pastor Marvin Lewis Graham is survived by his loving wife Willie Diane Graham; 4 sons Marvin Lewis Jr. of Selkirk NY, James Earl Graham (wife Mertus) of Albany NY, David Allen Graham (wife Aliecia) of Albany NY, Alex Graham (wife Audrey) of AustinTX; 7 daughters Rene Lattimore of Syracuse NY, Janice Graham of Schenectady NY, Gale Graham Nelson (husband Jeffery) of Schenectady NY, Lavern Mc Queen of Rochester NY, Marvenia Bong (husband Sebell)of Cantor NY, Rachel Summers (husband Jeremy) of Austin TX, Elizabeth Blackshine of Great Barrington MA.; brother Edward L. Graham (Wife Ann) of Albany NY; 31 grandchildren, 34 great grandchildren and a very large list of nieces, nephews, family member and friends.
Proceeded by brothers Robert G. Graham (wife Helen), Jessie J. Graham, Percy L. Graham (Wife Tiny); sister Mary N. Graham; and loving parents Pinkie and Lucius Graham.
Marvin was a humble, kind and loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, son, pastor, friend and will be greatly missed by all. His smile, compassion, and Christ light will stay in our memory and hearts for a lifetime.
Elder Grahams going home celebration will be held on Saturday, June 25th 2016 at Wilborn Temple COGIC 121 Jay Street Albany NY. The wake will be from 9 a.m. thru 11 a.m. with service beginning at 11 am. The repass will be held later that afternoon at New Bethel COGIC located at 2020 Broadway Street in Schenectady NY.
In lieu of flowers please send memorial contributions to 31 Hite Court Schenectady NY 12303.