Bertha Lee Wylie Graham

Age 88, died peacefully August 17, 2014, after a short illness. A lifelong resident of New Mexico, she was born in Madrid, NM October 6, 1925, but lived most of her life in Albuquerque. She was married to James W. Graham for 64 years, who preceded her in death in 2010. She is survived by two children, Suzanne Graham Shave of Albuquerque, and James L. Graham of Las Cruces; son-in-law, Paul Shave; two grandchildren, Benjamin Graham of Las Cruces and James M. Graham of Bristow, VA; and brother, Ralph Wylie of Dallas, and his wife Odette. Bertha was the youngest of eight children. Her father was a coal mining supervisor. She graduated from Albuquerque High School and worked for the Veterans Administration and Anderson Printing before marrying Jimmy Graham, a plumber and builder. They built 2 houses in the North Valley and always had an abundant vegetable garden. She did home canning and was a wonderful cook. She was always able to put a delicious meal on the table at short notice for anyone who showed up at her door, including the workers on Jimmy's projects. The North Valley has lost a great host and hostess in Jimmy and Bertha. Bertha's passion was gardening. She was a lifetime flower show judge, Garden Clubber, and president of the Friends of the Rio Grande Botanic Garden from 1996 to 1998. Jimmy and Bertha's friendship and generosity will be greatly missed. We love you Mom. Graveside Services will be held on Monday, August 25, 2014 at 11:15 a.m. at Santa Fe National Cemetery. A Memorial Service will be held in late September at the Albuquerque Mennonite Church.