Shirley Jeanne Walker Graham, 96, of Bradenton, Florida, passed away peacefully on May 7, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on March 14, 1930, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to Herschel James Walker and Edythe Mae (Carey) Walker. On November 14, 1953, she married John D. Graham of Franklin, Indiana. In addition to her parents and beloved husband John, Shirley was preceded in death by her sister, Phyllis Ann McGuire, and her son, Daniel John Graham.
Shirley devoted 28 years of service as a full-time National Guard employee at Stout Field, serving as secretary to the United States Property and Fiscal Officer for Indiana. For 25 of those years, she worked alongside Colonel Norwood R. Hughes, and for the remainder of her career she served under his predecessor, Major General John N. Owens, former Adjutant General of Indiana. Her dedication and professionalism earned the respect and admiration of those who worked with her.
Following retirement, Shirley and her husband embraced their love of travel, touring the country together in their van while visiting family and exploring new places. Eventually, they settled in the Longboat Key and Bradenton area of Florida, fulfilling Shirley’s lifelong dream of living in the Sunshine State.
She is survived by her daughters, Sandra Lee Faulkner of Bradenton, Florida, and Teresa Lynn Svenstrup (Jim) of Reston, Virginia; six grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, all of whom cherished her deeply.
At Shirley’s request, she will be cremated, and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date in Indianapolis, Indiana, at the Great Hall Chapel at Washington Park North Cemetery. The date and time will be announced and shared with family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Military Department of Indiana Ceremonial Unit, 2002 S. Holt Road, Building No. 4, Indianapolis, Indiana.
Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory, 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd Street West, Bradenton, FL 34209, is in charge of arrangements.
