Charles Loyd Graham

Charles Loyd Graham left this life in the early morning hours of Saturday, May 6, 2017, when God called him home. Born on September 19, 1942, in Houston, Texas, to George R. Graham and Mattie Ruth Graham, Charles was loving, steadfast, and hardworking. Charles enlisted in the Navy in June of 1960, and served his country until he was honorably discharged in July of 1963. He married Clara Lynette Broderhausen (“Penny”) on March 12, 1966. They shared forty-nine happy years together before she went to be with the Lord. They especially enjoyed their retirement years in Hilltop Lakes, Texas. They were active members of their church and the community. A devoted husband, Charles cared for Penny tirelessly during her own fight with cancer. Charles was incredibly proud of his sons, Robert and Scott, and his four grandchildren. He courageously battled cancer his last six months and was an inspiration to all who knew him. Until the very end, Charles thought of the people he loved before himself.

In addition to his family, another important part of his life was the Texas Department of Public Safety, where he spent his career as a law enforcement officer. He began his training with the DPS in November of 1963, and he retired as Chief of the Traffic Law Enforcement Division in August of 2002.

He was a dedicated member of the Masonic Lodge, Rogers Prairie #540. He held dual membership with DeWitt Clinton, #29.

Charles had a deep love of the outdoors that he carried with him from childhood. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and spending time at his farm. He was an exceptional carpenter and cook, and he was always willing to put those skills to use for friends and family.

Charles is survived by his son, Robert Graham; son, Scott Graham and wife, Kyann; grandchildren, John, Katelynn, Haley, and Aubrey; brother, Travis Graham; and countless other family members and friends. Charles is preceded in death by his wife, Penny Graham; father, George R. Graham; mother, Mattie Ruth Graham; brother, Jack Graham; brother, Kenneth Graham; and granddaughter, Abigail Graham.

We were blessed by Charles’ love of life, laughter, and his generosity of spirit. We are grateful for the lives he touched.

The family will receive visitors on Friday, May 12, 2017, at 9:00 a.m., with the funeral following at 10:00 a.m. The visitation and service will take place at Hilltop Lakes Chapel under the direction of Cozart Funeral Home. Charles will be interred at Willow Creek Cemetery in Tomball, Texas at 2:00 p.m. after the funeral service.