Obituary of Marjorie Irene Graham

July 7, 1928 – Calgary, Alberta

June 21, 2023 – Calgary, Alberta

Marjorie Irene Graham was an individual that graced the planet and all those who were fortunate to know her. She encapsulated joy, peace, wisdom, and kindness. Marj was a radiant being whose light stretched across the decades, illuminating the world. Her earthly journey was as vibrant as she was, lasting 16 days short of her 95th birthday. 

A sense of humour was one of Marj’s greatest attributes. Her infectious laugh rang out throughout her life. Marj used humour as a means of coping with all aspects of her life. She was quick to share a laugh with others, but she was just as likely to laugh at herself when she was met with obstacles that threatened to thwart her.  Throughout her illness, Marj was upbeat. Never a day passed without Marj leading others in infectious laughter over truly funny occurrences, as well as everyday simplicities throughout the last months of her life.  Moments before her passing, she made one last joke to alleviate the situation and transition with laughter and love.

Being thoughtful and helpful were traits synonymous with Marj.  She consistently put others first and thought of their needs before her own.  With zest, Marj gladly assisted anywhere help was required.  She was conscientious and an extremely hard worker.  Marj was driven to always do her best, and followed her mother’s simple advice: 

“Good; Better; Best;

Never let it rest.

Until the Good is Better,

And the Better, Best.”

‘Mom’ was a role Marj excelled in. She was devoted to her two daughters. Marj threw herself into every activity Lynne and Vicki were involved in. Whether it be ballet or gymnastics; modeling or plays; she transported them to rehearsals and practices, and eagerly attended their competitions and shows. She was always available to talk to, and she would listen carefully. Marj was a fantastic cheerleader and an exemplary role model for her children.

As a wife, Marj was loving in an understated way. She did not demonstrate public displays of affection. Marj’s tenderness was reserved for private moments, which made them infinitely more valuable. Her loyalty and dedication to the two main gentlemen in her life was palpable. Marj married Percy Ronald Graham in the 1950’s. They established themselves in the community of Altadore where they built their first home. Their union produced two girls, and when they added their miniature poodle Peanuts, the family was complete! The marriage ended sadly when Percy succumbed to cancer in 1991. Marj’s other husband is Edgar Albert Hemmings.  She met Ed at a singing and dancing troupe called, ‘The Silver Stars Revue’ in the latter part of her life. Theirs was a romantic story of the debonaire singer sweeping the vivacious dancer off her feet!  Marj and Ed had 21 fun-filled years of traveling, and attending family gatherings where Marj was revered as the wise matriarch.

Chevron and Petro Canada were the two energy companies where Marj was employed. Prior to and during her marriage to Percy, Marj worked as a secretary at Chevron. She was excited to be situated downtown, where the heartbeat of the growing city of Calgary pulsed! Marj went on a hiatus from her career to raise Lynne and Vicki. After 13 years at home, Marj returned to the workforce. She was hired as an Executive Secretary with Petro Canada. Again, Marj was in the hub of the action downtown…and she loved it! Her tenured career ignited many lifelong friendships.

Marj was a dynamic soul with many passions. The love for her grandchildren was epic, and no hockey game, art show or school activity was missed.  Go kids go! She loved dogs and was a devoted ‘mother’ and ‘grandmother’ to her family’s dogs. She was a fashion icon who wore her styles in an effortless, elegant manner. When she was young, Marj happily played the piano in her spare time.  As a newlywed, she joined her siblings and square danced. Marj was right in step with the ‘in’ activity of her times. In her 60’s, Marj became an excellent tap dancer! She joined the ‘Silver Stars Revue’ and sparkled as a dancer and performer in many entertaining shows. She also joined the choir where she and Ed lived at the Manor - Garrison Woods. One of her most memorable choir performances was when she made an appearance as a gun-toting, western femme fatale in a costume that featured her show girl legs!

Throughout her life, Marj played many roles. Daughter; sister; wife; mother; grandmother; auntie; employee. She was a master of all of them. Those that were blessed to be a part of her life, will forever remember her spirited persona, warm demeanour, and her hilarious sense of humour. For those who embraced and loved her, so too will Marj be, forevermore.

In living memory of Marjorie Graham, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB T2S 2L5, Telephone: 403-243-8200.