Remembering Bob Graham: A Civil And Dedicated Public Servant

Adele Graham, wife of U.S. Sen. and two-term Florida Gov. Bob Graham, left, smiles as she arrives for the public celebration of life service for her husband, at the Miami Lakes United Church of Christ

A memorial service was held in Miami Lakes, Florida, to honor the life and legacy of former Florida Governor and U.S. Senator Bob Graham, who passed away at the age of 87. The service, attended by around 200 people, took place at Miami Lakes United Church of Christ.

Attendees were greeted with recorded music by Jimmy Buffett, setting a reflective tone for the event. The program included a photo of Graham in his element, standing in the Everglades muck, showcasing his down-to-earth nature. A painting of Graham was displayed prominently, with his wife of 65 years, Adele, and their family in attendance.

Speakers at the service highlighted Graham's commitment to civility and genuine interactions. His friend and former general counsel, Robin Gibson, emphasized Graham's consistent display of friendly and civil behavior, even in high-stakes situations. Gibson praised Graham's focus on making decisions for the greater good, devoid of pettiness or personal agendas.

Service attended by around 200 people at Miami Lakes United Church of Christ.

Memorial service held in Miami Lakes for Bob Graham, former Governor and U.S. Senator.

Speakers praised Graham's commitment to civility and genuine interactions.

Graham known for meticulous note-taking and immersive 'workdays' in ordinary jobs.

Graham's daughter shared personal anecdotes reflecting his easy-going nature and frugality.

Graham's friend emphasized his friendly and civil behavior in all situations.

Graham's wife of 65 years, Adele, and family attended the service.

Graham's political journey and impact on historical outcomes discussed.

Graham's practicality and humility highlighted through anecdotes at the service.

Service served as a poignant tribute to Graham's dedication to public service and genuine connection with people.

Graham was known for his meticulous note-taking and unique 'workdays,' where he would immerse himself in various ordinary jobs to understand the challenges faced by everyday Floridians. His former chief of staff, Buddy Shorstein, shared how these experiences enriched Graham's perspective and reinforced the importance of good public policy.

Reflecting on Graham's political journey, Shorstein expressed disappointment at how Graham's note-taking was sometimes misconstrued as quirky. He speculated on the impact of this perception on Graham's vice-presidential prospects in past elections, suggesting that his selection could have altered historical outcomes.

Graham's daughter, former U.S. Rep. Gwen Graham, shared personal anecdotes that captured her father's easy-going nature and frugality. She fondly recalled a moment when her father proudly cooked a meal using a can of pumpkin, symbolizing his practicality and humility.

Despite the light-hearted stories, Gwen Graham emphasized her father's enduring influence as her inspiration and role model, expressing unwavering pride in being Bob Graham's daughter.

The memorial service served as a poignant tribute to Bob Graham's remarkable life, highlighting his dedication to public service, civility, and genuine connection with the people of Florida.