Charlotte L. Graham passed away peacefully at her home on Whidbey Island on Tuesday, April 24, 2012, after a long battle with cancer. She was born in Akron, Ohio, September 2, 1943. Charlotte grew up in Mansfield, Ohio, and received a scholarship to the Columbus College of Art and Design. She became a Navy wife when she married Ensign David B. Graham in New Iberia, Louisiana after he completed flight training. They celebrated fifty years of a most wonderful marriage this April. She was a devoted and loving wife, following her husband for twenty years while moving to various bases. She is survived by David; her two sons, Bruce and Dan, a daughter-in-law Kristy and two grandchildren, Rebecca and Jackson.

After retiring in 1980 the couple moved back to Whidbey. This gave Charlotte more time to enjoy many of her interests, such as sewing, gardening and cooking great meals. The dogs she so loved will miss her very much. Charlotte attended Skagit Valley College, Western Washington University and Gonzaga University. She completed her Masters in Nursing and worked as a family nurse practitioner. She worked ten years at Whidbey General Hospital, then ten years at NAS Whidbey Hospital.

Charlotte always volunteered to help others. She was a very giving and helpful person. She helped with the Lion’s Club free health checkups and led the diabetes support group for many years on the island. After retiring in 2006, she took up her love of art and joined several local art groups, including the Oak Bay Artist and the Whidbey Allied Artist. She enjoyed several art mediums including oil, pastel, watercolor and colored pencil. Her work has been in several art shows and can still be seen at the Garry Oak Gallery. She had a great sense of humor and always put others first. She will be greatly missed by the many whose lives she touched. At Charlotte’s request, no formal funeral services will be held. David wishes to thank all of Charlotte’s wonderful friends that took the time to visit and comfort her during her illness. To honor her memory, donations may be made to WAIF, PO Box 1108, Coupeville, WA 98239-1108. Family and friends are encouraged to share memories and condolences at www.whidbeymemorial.com.