David Earl Graham

David Earl Graham, of Detroit, MI and Bluffton, SC, passed away suddenly on April 29, 2023.  David was born in Detroit on June 9, 1948 to Claude and Uzelle (White) Graham.  He graduated from Wayne State University in 1971 with a BA in Electrical Engineering and later got an MA in English, also from Wayne State University.  He worked for the City of Detroit, Public Lighting Division as an engineer for 38 years. Once retired, David and his lifelong partner, Susan Howell, moved to Sun City Hilton Head to enjoy their lives together.  David had many interests, which he pursued with vigor.  These included softball, music and fitness, all pursuits that he relished since he was a boy.  David loved softball and music, from the MicMac LIttle League teams where he was coached by his father to Sun City Softball where he enjoyed the competition and camaraderie.  His father also started him on the guitar, which was another lifelong pursuit.  He participated in several bands here in Sun City as well as The Strummers.  He was very active in his Mariner’s Cove neighborhood.  David always loved the fact that as he walked around the area here and in the neighboring areas, he would see people he knew with whom he could have a brief chat.  His eyes would light up with his greeting to people.

David is survived in death by his lifelong partner, Susan T. Howell, Hardeeville, SC, brothers Danny L. Graham, Kingman, AZ, and Gordon D. Graham of Allen Park, MI and a sister, Claudia A. Graham, Hardeeville, SC.  He  also leaves behind many nephews and nieces and their children.

The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Agape Family Life Center of Hardeeville, SC or St. Stephens Outreach Food Bank of Ridgeland, SC.

Celebration of Life:  3:00 pm; Friday; June 2, 2023 at Sauls Funeral Home in Bluffton, SC.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to the celebration, at the funeral home.