In Loving Memory Of Dorothy L. Graham

In Loving Memory Of Dorothy L. Graham
Sunrise: December 1, 1935
Sunset: January 4, 2017

Born the third of four children in Okolona, AK to William Sr. and Rosie Braggs. In her early teens, the family moved to Milwaukee, WI for better opportunities, and at the age of 17 Dorothy planted her roots in Seattle, WA under the guidance of her Aunts.
Dorothy was industrious, she worked every job offered to her. An independent woman, she lived by her own rules. Although she didn’t graduate from high school, she gained a job earning living wages at Boeing enabling her to provide a stable home for her 6 children. While at Boeing, she worked additional hours at Garfield Annex – Extended Services Program (ESP). At Garfield, she provided Music, Art, Home Economics and Spiritual Counseling to young, Black students. After her career at Garfield and Boeing, she worked at Lockheed Shipyard until her early retirement in 1980.
In 1973, Dorothy purchased a new home in South Seattle, two years later she married the love her life, Eli Graham (deceased) she continued to raise her family made sure her 3 oldest graduate from high school and college. She was well known for her love of cooking and feeding all that visited her home. She is regarded as one of the best cooks in Seattle by those who knew her. She also had this amazing ability to make anyone laugh. A fastidious woman, regarding her home and care of her children, particularly her two daughters.
Dorothy affectionately known as Dot, Ms. D, Granny, Mama, Mrs. Jenkins, Ms. Dorothy and Queen, she passed away peacefully, surrounded by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchild and cousins.
Preceded in death by her parents William and Rosie Braggs, son Merly Vernell ‘Man’ Pillard, brother William Jr. Braggs, Step-children J.B and Judy Pillard.
She is survived by five children: Tinna White, Tami Pillard, Terry Jenkins, Ray Jenkins and Luther Jenkins, 21 Grandchildren: Latasha Stelly, Erica Kelley, Marquis White, Jemell Jenkins, Ashely Pillard, Alisha Pillard, Javon Wilson, Dewayne Jenkins, Sharaya Lane, Terrianna Jenkins, Tierra Jenkins, El Shawna Jenkins, Montique Jenkins, Ray Jr. Jenkins, Tiarra Jenkins, Trey Jenkins, Araya Jenkins, Danielle Jenkins, Luther Jr. Jenkins, Tevin Jenkins and Tierrah Briwn; 15 Great-Grandchildren (her youngest great-grandchild Kyilene, affectionately called her GG); two sisters: Billie Danley and Rosie Simms of Milwaukee WI, Step-Child Ada Lynette Graham as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Per Dorothy’s request, there will be no Memorial Service which the family will honor.