James (Jay) Rufus Graham Jr.

James (Jay) Rufus Graham, Jr., passed away at his home on February 15, 2026, at the age of 64. Born September 24, 1961, Jay was a retired farmer who dedicated his life to his craft and his family. Jay is preceded in death by his parents Jim and Yvonne Graham, brother John Graham and brother-in-law Bolling Brawley. He is survived by his wife Courtney Dunn Graham and children including Lucas Graham (Jaymie) - Newport, TN; Austin Graham (Meredith) - Knoxville, TN; Will Woods - St. Petersburg, FL; and Bella Woods Mathis (Isaac) - Destin, FL. His grandchildren are Hayden, Harper, and Easton (Lucas) and Stella and Ava (Austin). All of JayPaw’s grandchildren were simply the light of his life as he loved attending birthday parties, athletic contests, and any opportunity to celebrate them. He is also survived by sisters Julie Graham Walker - Sweetwater, TN; Elizabeth Graham Parker - Woodbury, TN; and Nancy Graham Brawley. His sisters-in-laws include Lindsay Dunn McNabb (Steve) - Newport, TN; Lucy Dunn Hooper (Ben W. Hooper III) - Newport, TN; Rachel Dunn (Johnny) - Newport, TN; brother-in-law Boe Dunn (Margot) - Knoxville, TN; mother-in-law, Mary (NaNa) Dunn and father-in-law, Clyde (Scutter) Dunn. He is finally survived by a great multitude of nieces and nephews. From little league to his college years, sports were a cornerstone of Jay’s life. After a standout high school career that culminated in a quarterfinal playoff appearance his senior season, Jay went on to play collegiate baseball at ETSU and Walters State. As an adult he poured that same love for baseball and football back into his community. Whether he was coaching at City Park, helping launch the Middle School football program, or assisting the CCHS Baseball team, Jay was a constant fixture on the sidelines, sharing his knowledge and passion with countless young athletes. Beginning in the early 1980s, Jay operated Graham Farms alongside his father growing corn, soybeans, and wheat. This grain farming operation earned national recognition with top ranked corn yields numerous years, including in 2015 when their test plots recorded the highest recorded yields nationally. Additionally, Jay and his father owned and operated Tri-State Tractor and Turf, a John Deere dealership in Greeneville, TN during the early 1990s. A lifelong animal lover, Jay’s dogs were his constant shadows. Whether it was his beloved Black Labrador, Butch, or his more recent English and French Bulldogs and Bernedoodles, each was a cherished member of the household. Jay’s passion for the outdoors was equally matched by his skill as a hunter. He spent countless seasons pursuing duck, deer, and turkey—trips made all the more meaningful because they were shared with his boys, Luke and Austin. Jay was a beloved community member. He was a lifelong member of First United Methodist Church. On Friday nights you could see him at Larry Williams Stadium cheering on the Fighting Cocks. He often expressed his care for others through delicious Southern cooking. His family and friends consider those who had the fortune of trying his cheesecake or BBQ as incredibly lucky. His memory will certainly be carried on at the dinner and desert tables. The family will receive friends Friday, February 20th, 2026 from 4:00-6:00 P.M. in the Sanctuary of the First United Methodist Church, Newport, TN. A Celebration of Life service will immediately follow at 6:00 P.M. Memorials can be made to either of the following organizations Jay supported. Jay’s family expresses their sincere gratitude in advance. 1. First United Methodist General Fund, 212 Washington Avenue, Newport, TN 37821; or 2. Cocke County Football Letterman Club, 175 Brookstone Road, Parrottsville, TN 37843

James (Jay) Rufus Graham Jr.

September 24, 1961 - February 15, 2026