Zelma Howery Graham

Our loving mother, Zelma Howery Graham, age 88 of Christiansburg, VA took flight with the angels on Tuesday, July 13, 2021. She was born in Floyd, VA on January 15, 1933 to the late Frank and Margaret Howery.
Zell is survived by her son, Everette ‘Marty’ Graham (Jewelynn) of Powhatan, VA; daughter, Susan Camper (Carl) of Riner, VA; as well as sisters, Francis Bower of Biglerville, PA and Jane Richwine (Ralph) of Gardners, PA; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her devoted husband of 68 years, Caswell; her adored son, Philip Mark; brothers, Robert Albert and Paul; and sisters, Lillian Hale and Faye Reeder.
When her dad decided to buy a farm in Gettysburg, PA she was the only sibling that wanted to move back to Virginia. Her dreams were joining the service to see the world, but a cute guy named Cas thwarted her plans. She made up for it later and really enjoyed the trips and cruises she went on. It is still a mystery just how many bridge couples and canasta clubs she was a member of, but those times with dear friends were so cherished.
She always expressed how important it was to participate and volunteer in the community you resided in and she developed many lifelong friendships from working with the Virginia State Beauty Pageants, Floyd Ward School of Dance, Izaak Walton League, Montgomery Museum, working the polls on every election, the Christmas Store, member of St. Paul United Methodist Church and order of the Eastern Star, McDaniel Chapter #47.
She enjoyed fishing, watching everything grow, baking and sharing, having conversations with anyone, history, politics, learning about nursing in classes at NRCC because her mother was one, but most of all playing bridge and canasta and her church family.
Being a homemaker we had the luxury of her time our whole life. She was a wonderful and creative mother and just last week said ‘a mother would do anything for her children’ – and that she did ten-fold. We will miss her excitement for life attitude, but it’s her family and friends turn now in heaven that can enjoy her personality again. Mom we love you – and will wait our turn again.
Per her wishes, there will be a graveside service on Tuesday, July 27, 2021, at 1 p.m. at the entrance of Sunset Cemetery, Christiansburg, VA, with Arnold Naff officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to St. Paul United Methodist Church, 220 W. Main St., Christiansburg, VA 24073.