Obituary of SGM Jimmie C. Graben

SGM Jimmie C. Graben, 99, U.S. Army Retired passed away peacefully on Monday, 09 January 2023 at his home in Hopkins SC surrounded by family. Jimmie was born December 1, 1923 to Joseph and Beulah Abner Graben in Laurel Hill, Florida. He was one of eight children and the family moved to Covington County, Alabama. He met his beautiful bride and wife of 66 years, Mary Pearl Swinford, while he was still attending school in Alabama. They were married before Jim left to serve in the U.S. Army Air Corps during WWII.

Jimmie Graben was a proud American hero. He was a 28-year veteran of WWII, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. During his time in service, he received numerous commendations including the Combat Infantry badge with star and was twice awarded the Order of the Purple Heart. He loved his country and was proud to defend and protect it for his family and all Americans.

Mr. Graben was a member of Trinity Presbyterian Church where he served on the session, as a Trustee, as a member of the choir, as a Stephens minister and was president and founder of the Voices of Experience.

After his retirement, he enjoyed traveling, continued work with

Trinity and worked in his abundant garden. He delivered for Meals on Wheels and donated regularly to the American Red Cross. He also served several years as chaplain to the Military Order of the Purple Heart, Chapter 402. He enjoyed spending time with friends and family, and sent yearly birthday cards to his entire family.

Jim is survived by his daughters,

Judy Graben Smith and Susan Graben Anderson; grandchildren and spouses, James (JB) Benson, John and Lorri Benson, Joseph and Kristi Benson, Jeffrey and Angela Benson, Gena Smith, Jessie Smith and Billy Dewar, Jim Anderson, Pamela Anderson; great-grandchildren, Serenity Anderson and Michael Anderson; numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, his daughter, Elaine Benson, and his beloved wife, Mary Pearl Graben.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, 14 January 2023 at Thompson Funeral Home Greenlawn Memorial Park Chapel . There will be a 30-minute window for viewing just prior to the 11:00 service with Chaplain Sean Smith and Rev Dr Ron Gilmer. Full Military honors and internment will follow at Greenlawn Memorial Park at 12:00 noon.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation either to the American Red Cross, Central South Carolina Chapter 2751 Bull Street, Columbia SC 29201 or to Meals on Wheels of Richland County at www.seniorresourcesinc. org/senior-care/meals-on-wheels/ in Jim Graben’s name.