"CW" Graham, 77, of Zolfo Springs, FL, passed away peacefully at home with his loving wife by his side, on Sunday, May 3, 2015, after a brief battle with lung cancer.

One of seven children, CW was born to the late James and Mattie (Haymon) Graham in Ailey, GA on October 6, 1937. After attending Pasco High School in Dade City, FL, CW joined the Florida National Guard in 1954 and enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1956 where he attained the rank of Sergeant.

CW married the love of his life and partner in mischief, Sandra Cooper Graham on January 10, 1961. They enjoyed 54 years of marriage and were devoted parents to three biological children and lots of "adopted" children of whom filled their lives with chaos, laughter and love.

CW retired from the Pinellas County School Board where he was Maintenance Supervisor for 24 years. He was renowned for his famous smoked mullet and homemade onion rings that brought family and friends together on the weekends. He enjoyed fast cars, pulling pranks, telling jokes, fishing, gun slinging, casino slots, karaoke, camping, and was known to cheat at cards (or any game for that matter).

CW was preceded in death by son, Richard Dale Graham and brother Wilbur Graham. Survivors include his wife, Sandra Graham, of Zolfo Springs; daughter, Tessa Graham Jeffery of Zolfo Springs; son and daughter-in-law, Robert and Myriee' Graham of Canton, GA; grandchildren, Lucas and Jacob Graham of Canton, GA; brothers and sisters-in-law, Gerald and Ernestine Graham of Ocala; James Malcom and Diane Graham of Bushnell; and Richard and Judy Graham of Frostproof; sisters and brothers-in-law, Shirley and Curt Jackson of Avon Park, and Carolyn Sholler of Saint Cloud; numerous nieces and nephews, and other family and friends.

A Life Celebration Service will be held on Saturday May 9, 2015 at 11:00 AM with a viewing from 10:00-11:00 AM at Robarts Garden Chapel. Military Honors will be provided by the American Legion Post #2.

In lieu of flowers, the family humbly asks for memorial donations to help with funeral expenses. Donations may be made at any Wauchula State Bank branch to the Carlos Graham Memorial Fund or online at www.gofundme.com/carlosgraham .