Curtis, Jean Graham
Jean Graham Curtis (1939 – 2021) went home to her Savior Jesus Christ on August 21st. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend.
Jean is survived by Paul, her husband of 62 years, and her three sons. Mark and wife Stephanie of Bridgewater, John and wife Melanie of Radford, youngest son Keith of Phoenix, AZ. Her pride and joy are grandchildren Ryan and Evan Curtis and Justin Ratcliffe. Left to cherish her memory are brother Harold Sumner and wife Diane, special niece Nancy Robertson and husband Doug. She was preceded in death by her parents, Dovie and Nelson Graham, and her siblings Houston Sowers, Dollie Epperly and Christine Olsen.
Quick with a joke, she was life of the party from an early age, making lasting friendships with everyone she met. Born in Alexandria, VA December 1st 1939, the family moved back to the New River Valley at age seven, living in Floyd and Riner, where she graduated from Auburn High School. Nelson found good work again in Northern Virginia, moving the family back there in 1958. Jean and Paul married in 1959, heading off to Alexandria where he worked alongside Nelson and his father Lonnie. Both men were talented carpenters. After a few years Jean and Paul moved back to Christiansburg to raise a family.
The Curtis family church is Park United Methodist where Jean was an active participant. She was treasurer, sang in the choir and from time to time delivered the message. When she stood at the pulpit to preach, everyone said ‘Reverend Graham’ is sharing the word today.
She loved going to Billy Joel concerts. She enjoyed playing canasta and other card games. She cherished visits and vacations with friends. Jean was active in the Christiansburg Women’s Club and other civic organizations. She was employed by Curtis Dodge and Appalachian Power combined for three decades.
After retirement, she worked part-time at the family’s disposal and recycling business. A bookkeeper by training, Jean enjoyed managing the office but was especially fond of working and laughing with coworkers and customers. Her one-liners are famous! She enjoyed quiet evenings at home, never missing a Jeopardy episode. She loved watching baseball, all teams except the Yankees. A brief exception made when Andy Pettitte pitched for them. She played a top-notch game of Scrabble.
In lieu of flowers, cash support can be sent to the Christiansburg Volunteer Fire Department. Also consider eye donorship to the Virginia Lions Eye Bank. Jean would love that! A life celebration will be held Sunday September 5th at Park United Methodist Church. First with a memorial service at 2 pm followed by a reception with food and soft drinks.
She passed away peacefully in her sleep. Until we meet again Sweet Jean.