Graham

“No person was ever honored for what he received. Honor has been the reward for what he gave.”—Calvin Coolidge

MILANO—Burton Frank Graham, 65, unexpectedly passed away after a short illness on Aug. 27, 2021, in the Maury Regional Medical Center in Columbia, Tennessee.

He was born fourth of five sons on March 19, 1956, in Cameron to Archie Newton Graham and Martha Belle Graham. He was a beloved son and brother.

Burt graduated as valedictorian from Milano High School in 1974. He later received his bachelor’s degree in history from Baylor University and continued his education at Dallas Theological Seminary, graduating in 1983 with a Masters of Theology.

Burt was easily recognized as a wonderful musician. He first began singing in church at a young age. His first song was “Christian Cowboy,” and his grandfather told him, “Remember who you are singing for.” From singing on trail rides to performing with his brothers in their family band and eventually leading worship for many churches and gatherings, Burt’s life was engulfed in music. He was also a gifted songwriter.

Burt met the love of his life, Terri, the woman he had been waiting many years for, in 1991 and July 11, 1992, they were married. During their 29 years together, the Lord’s faithfulness was the overarching theme of their lives. God blessed them with three amazing children.

Burt was passionate about the Word of God, sharing his love of pianos with others, good barbecue and honey.

He was known and loved by so many for his humor, kindness, generosity, compassion towards others and most notably his selflessness. Burt will be greatly missed.

He was preceded in death by brothers Berry Archie Graham on May 23, 2005, and Robert Lafayette “Bob” Graham on May 14, 2012; nephews Robert Reagan Graham on Dec. 1, 1980, and Ben N. Graham on April 1, 1991; his father, Archie Newton Graham on May 13, 1998; and his mother, Martha Belle Graham on Aug. 21, 2017.

Surviving is his wife, Terri Hartmann Graham of Columbia TN; daughter Emma Belle Graham of Fishers, IN; two sons, Grayson James Graham of Waco and Samuel Joseph Graham of Columbia, TN; brothers William N. “Bill” Graham and wife Nan of Milano and Benjamin D. “Ben” Graham of Milano; sister-in-law Renda Graham of Rockdale; niece and nephew, Brooke Graham of Milano and Boone Graham of Austin.

Graveside services are scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 5, in the Graham-Hurt Cemetery near Milano, with Roy Dillard officiating.

Burt’s celebration of life will be held Wednesday, Sept. 8, at Bridge Christian Church, 380 Compton Road, Crawford, TX 76638.

In honor of Burt’s legacy, gifts are being received to cover costs of medical and funeral expenses and for Samuel’s college fund. Checks can be made out to Terri Graham and addressed to 1868 Providence Ct, Columbia, TN. Your support is greatly appreciated.