Patricia A. Graham

Patricia A. (Wilcoxen) Graham, 91 of Springfield passed away peacefully at 10:54 am Thursday March 6, 2025 at Memorial Medical Center in Springfield.

She was born April 25, 1933 at Lewistown, the daughter of Vern and Helen (Wilhelm) Wilcoxen. She married Philip D. Graham in 1956 in Joliet where they embarked on a wonderful life together. He preceded her in death in 2016. She was also preceded in death by her parents, and three siblings, Ruth (Wilcoxen) Shields, Jack Wilcoxen, and James “Jim” Wilcoxen. Survivors include her sister in-law, Roberta Wilcoxen of Springfield, and many nieces and nephews and their families.

Pat began working for the Housing Authority in Joliet and after several years she began a successful career as purchasing manager with Apollo Colors in Joliet. She was an innovative leader and handled many things including purchasing contracts of raw materials in many different countries. Pat was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Joliet and was always eager to help with church activities. Her faith was strong and never wavered. She was involved in many organizations including Kings Daughters, Women’s Club of Joliet, the Women’s Study Club and Mary Circle. Her dedication and work with Lightways Hospice in Joliet brought her much fulfillment. She was proud of the style shows and other charity events raising money for Lighways. She was an avid reader and loved painting, crafts, jigsaws and especially crossword puzzles.

Pat was a wonderful conversationalist and always enjoyed time talking with her many special friends over coffee or via telephone. She was close to her family and looked forward to annual vacations and get togethers with her nieces, nephews and family. She had relatives from coast to coast and many continued to visit in person or send a card, letter or flowers over the years. Pat had a remarkable journey that lasted 90 years. She was always eager to tell a story and had an almost perfect recall to memories and life events. Pat remembered everything and forgot nothing. She was a friend to many and a beloved Aunt.

Cremation will be accorded and a visitation will be held from 5-7 pm Wednesday March 19, 2025 at Henry-Lange Memorial Home in Lewistown. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in honor of Pat Graham to Lightways Hospice and Serious Illness Care, 250 Water Stone Circle, Joliet, IL 60431.