Lawrence James Graham

Lawrence “James” Graham was born on March 6, 1972, in Santa Monica, California, and passed away peacefully in his sleep at home on September 19, 2026, in Fargo, North Dakota, due to natural causes related to COPD.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Laura and James Graham, and his nephew, Alexander James. He is survived by his daughter, Tamara Doran of Fargo, North Dakota; his son, Zachary Graham of Garland, Texas; his beloved granddaughter, Guinevere Doran; his sister, Donna (VK); his nieces, Samantha Carns (Armando) and Juliette, all of Australia; and many cousins throughout the United States.

A Southern boy to the end, James grew up in Denton County, Texas, and spent much of his twenties traveling throughout the United States. He later made Northwest Arkansas his home in his mid-thirties, where he built a successful career in hospitality and received multiple Fayetteville hospitality awards. He attended the University of North Texas and the University of Arkansas.

In 2018, James relocated to Fargo, but his core never really left the South. He remained an eternally devoted Razorbacks fan and was most frequently seen sporting UofA gear.

James was a gentle giant with a gift for gab who could make a friend almost anywhere. His unmistakable charm, intellect, humor, and wit were central to who he was, and there always seemed to be a free drink somewhere nearby when James was around.

James lived a life that took him across the country, through different cities, careers, friendships, and chapters. It is fitting that his final journey will be much the same. A Funeral Mass will be held at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Fargo, where he was a member of the Knights of Columbus, before his last grand adventure to Australia. He will ultimately be laid to rest in his home state of Texas, in accordance with his wishes.

Remembered for his passionate banter, laughter, and larger-than-life presence, he will be greatly missed by his family who loved him dearly.

Until we meet again, we raise a Dr. Pepper.

“SOOOOIE, Go Hogs”