Carol Jean Graham

New Brighton, MN - Carol Jean (Nelson) Graham, age 86, passed away peacefully on November 24, 2025. Born on Christmas Day in 1938, she grew up in N.E. Minneapolis. After graduating from Edison H.S. in 1956, she married her high school sweetheart and the love of her life, Galen Graham. Together they raised five children living a life filled with unwavering devotion and dedication to family, friends and the community. She is preceded in death by her loving husband, Galen; son Martin; parents Edward and Caroline; siblings Edward, Rose, Stuart, Mary, Jack, Thomas. Survived by children Penny Parrott (Jerry); Pamela Kilpela; Michael Graham (Toni); Tricia Misgen (Michael). Grandchildren Andrew, Katlin, Megan Parrott; Christina Cash, Eric Kilpela; Jack Graham; Abigail and Greta Misgen; and Great Granddaughter Savannah Santos. She is also survived by sister Dorothy McMullen, many nieces, nephews, and friends who loved her dearly. Her family was the heart of her existence, and she cherished every chance she had to spend time with them. She could often be found cheering on her kids and grandkids at school and sporting events. Carol was a role model as a working mother and retired after 40 years of service as a Senior Administrator to the Minneapolis Public School System. At the time of her retirement, she had oversight of numerous divisions of the school system. She was well respected for her tenacity and ability to manage numerous responsibilities and achieve results. She felt deeply about improving the educational experiences of children in Minneapolis. Her other roles in community engagement included PTA President, Athletic Board Member, Girl Scout Leader, Sunday School Teacher, Voter Registration Officer and Volunteer Reader to young students. Carol was known as the queen of organization. She found immense joy in planning events that nurtured relationships and brought people together. Whether it was a family reunion, neighborhood block party or playing cards with her friends, she lit up at the opportunity to coordinate any event where she could share time and conversation with those she cared about. She leaves behind a legacy of devoted wife, mother, grandmother, resilience, companionship, generosity, and love. A Memorial Service will be held at Christ the King Church, 1900 7th St NW, New Brighton, MN on Friday, December 12, 2025, at 11:00 AM. Visitation will be one hour before the Service. Luncheon immediately following. Celebration of Life will continue at Eagles Club, 563 Old Hwy 8, New Brighton, MN from 1:30pm-5:30pm. Private Interment. Hillside Cemetery. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her, she will be truly missed.

Tributes

Carol Jean Graham

December 25, 1938 - November 24, 2025

Tributes

Carol Jean Graham

December 25, 1938 - November 24, 2025

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