Bob Graham’s memorial arrangements announced

Memorial arrangements are out for Bob Graham, and they include lying in state in the Historic Capitol on Friday, April 26, and a private family burial service thereafter. A public service is planned for Saturday, May 11, at a time yet to be announced.

Graham’s family announced the plans through Chris Land, a Jacksonville lawyer and former aide to the former two-term governor and three-term U.S. senator whose death at 87 was announced this week.

Gov. Ron DeSantis has ordered U.S. and state flags flown at half-staff in memory of his predecessor.

“On Saturday, May 11, the Graham family will host a public memorial service at Miami Lakes United Church of Christ in Gov. Graham’s hometown of Miami Lakes. The exact time will be announced in the days following the April 26 Historic Capitol event and private burial.” Land said in a written announcement.

“Gov. Graham is survived by his wife of 65 years, former First Lady Adele Graham; children Gwen Graham (and husband Steve Hurm); Cissy Graham McCullough (Billy); Suzanne Graham Gibson (Tom); and Kendall Graham; 11 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren,” he added.

“Gov. Graham’s enduring wish was to prepare future generations for service to Florida, the nation, and the world. In lieu of flowers, and in memory of his remarkable life, Gov. Graham’s family asks that donations be made to the Bob Graham Center for Public Service at the University of Florida.

“Well-wishers can honor Gov. Graham by visiting the Bob Graham Center online at https://go.ufl.edu/bobgraham or calling the Center at 352-273-1080 to support its vital work.”