Issuu

To My Loving Wife In Heaven

Our time together was special So were the memories we made And although you live in Heaven now Those memories never fade

I bow my head in silence And remember my wife with love And I know that you are up there

Watching from above

Everyday’s a struggle And nothing feels the same And my heart breaks a little more Everytime I hear your name

You’ll always be remembered And time may heal my heart But a piece of me is missing Since the day we had to part

If heaven is for Angels

When I know that’s where you’ll be And I know you will be waiting When heaven calls for me

To Our Mother

Throughout our lives, you have always been near. At first you were a hand to hold, the person who came running to pick us up when we fell. Now we know you are always a phone call away, and we are so thanksful for your wisdom, advice, your words of encouragement and your silent prayers. If we are beautiful, it’s because you told us so, if we are strong, it’s because you showed us how to pick ourselves up, to move on and learn from our mistakes. Thank you so much for everything you are.

We Love You!

If Flowers Grow in Heaven

If flowers grow in heaven, Lord, then pick a bunch for me. Then place them in my grandmother’s arms and tell her they’re from me.

Tell her that I love and miss her and when she turns to smile, place a kiss upon her cheek and hold her for awhile.

Because remembering her is easy, I do it every day, but there’s an ache within my heart that will never go away.

Life’s Reflections

PhyllisAnn Thompson Grafton was born in Buffalo, New York, on August 12, 1953, to the late Calvin D. Thompson and Ida E. Thompson. She was the firstborn of three daughters, followed by her sisters, Carolyn of Houston, Texas, and Beverly, who preceded her to Heaven.

Baptized at an early age, Phyllis attended Humboldt Parkway Baptist Church in Buffalo, where her exuberant participation in the choir inspired her parents to become involved in the church as well.

Phyllis attended Bennett High School and actively participated in the Russian, French, and Science Clubs. She also ran track and was admired for her elegant and stylish dress. An academically gifted student, she advanced a grade and graduated a year early. During the summer months, she gave back to her community by teaching youth programs at Walls Memorial Church, demonstrating her heart for service at a young age.

She continued her education at Kentucky State College (now Kentucky State University), where she was initiated into Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. It was also there that she met the love of her life, Jackie Wayne Grafton. The two were married on her birthday, August 12, 1972, beginning a beautiful journey of love, friendship, and partnership. Three children were born into this union: Dawn, Jerald, and Joy.

A passionate visionary, Phyllis had a heart for celebrating others and inspiring those around her to do more. She believed it was possible if you had a dream and would encourage you with the words, “You can do it!” She was also a captivating storyteller and a world traveler who enjoyed music, art, plays, shopping, and fine dining. More than anything, she cherished spending time with her beloved family. The Sunday dinners, holidays, and simple gatherings brought her much joy and laughter.

On Wednesday, April 9, 2025, Phyllis was called home by her Lord and Savior. Though deeply missed, her legacy of love, style, encouragement, and grace will live on in those who knew and loved her.

Phyllis’s family rejoices with deep gratitude for the gift of her life and the countless treasured memories. She will forever be held in the hearts of her loving and devoted husband of 52 years, Jackie W. Grafton; her children, Dawn (Jody), Jerald, and Joy (Reginald); seven grandchildren, Armani Grafton, Taylor Grafton, Jerald Grafton, Jr., Langston Rogers, Jacob Foster, Natalie Foster, and Shanna Grafton; her sister, Carolyn Thompson; sisters-in-law, Jewel (Eric) and Donna (Reuben); and her dear friend, Pat Snell.

Prelude

Celebration of Life

Saturday, April 19, 2025 12:00 Noon

First Baptist Church - Lauderdale

682 S. Lauderdale Street • Memphis, Tennessee 38126

Pastor Marcus Newsom, Pastor

Processional.................................................................The Family of Phyllis Ann Grafton

Musical Selection...................................................................................Lester & Pat Snell

Scripture Readings:

Old Testament: Proverbs 3& 5.........................................................Roselyn Miller New Testament: 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17....................Dr. James “Jimmie” Cowan Prayer.............................................................................................Pastor Marcus Newsom

“Expressions of Love”

(Respectfully, Two Minutes Please)

Carolyn Thompson - Sister

Pat Snell - Dear Friend & Neighbor

Armani Grafton - Grandchild

Jerald Grafton - Son

Musical Selection..............................................................................................Team

Acknowledgements.........................................................................................Vicki

Eulogy............................................................................................Pastor Marcus Newsom

Recessional

Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her.

“Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all.” Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.

Proverbs 31:28-31

~Acknowledgements ~

The family of Phyllis Ann Grafton would like to thank you for your kindness and support during this time of bereavement. We have been blessed by your many thoughtful expressions and the outpouring of love from all around. May God continue to cover us all and bless each and every one of you.

With special thanks to Dr. James (Jimmie) Cowan, Roselyn Miller, Jessica Miller, Rev. Walton, Lester Snell, Pat Snell, Pastor Marcus Newsom and family.