John C. Graham

John C. Graham, 79, of Metamora, IL, passed away at 7:24 p.m. on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at his residence.

He was born on May 10, 1946, in Dubuque, IA, to Joseph G. and Harriett (Schiltz) Graham. He married Sharon K. Fink on June 19, 1971, in Las Vegas, NV.

Surviving are his wife, Sharon of Metamora, IL; children, Mike (Stacey) Graham of Metamora, IL, Meggan (Dennis) Brooks of Glasford, IL, and Molly (Brent) Ross of Franklin, IN; grandchildren, Jadah Graham, Jaycee Graham, Aidan Graham, Ethan Graham, Ayden Ross, Everett Graham-Ponce, and Layla Ross; brother, James (Jane) Graham of Dubuque, IA; sister-in-law, Mary Jo Graham of Dubuque, IA; and many extended family members, including many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews whom he loved dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Thomas Graham and Joseph Graham.

John graduated from St. Columbkille’s Grade School in 1960 and Wahlert Catholic High School in 1964, both in Dubuque, IA. In his high school days, he was an active athlete, lettering multiple times in football, baseball, wrestling, and track. He was a member of the school’s mixed chorus when they sang at the 1964 New York World’s Fair.

In 1968, he graduated Cum Laude from Loras College with a degree in Economics. A proponent of life-long learning, he later achieved the professional designation Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU).

John served his country in the US. Army from 1968-1970, receiving an honorable discharge. He was honored to experience the Land of Lincoln Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., in 2023 with his son by his side.

John had a long financial services career spanning over five decades. He spent 10 years at Metropolitan Life Insurance Company, followed by six years at each Merril Lynch and Smith Barney.

In 1996, at 50 years old, he founded John Graham & Associates with his son, Michael, and another associate, building it into a premier wealth management firm through his hard work and dedication to his clients. He was also instrumental in the founding of Midwestern Securities Trading Company in 2000. Though he retired from JGA in 2013, he continued to share his knowledge with the next generation of financial advisors for many years. The legacy he helped build through these East Peoria financial institutions will live on for many generations to come.

John loved reading, continuous learning, and history. He was quick to share a good book or a meaningful quote with those he mentored. One of his favorites was, “Set your course by the stars, not by the lights of every passing ship.” by Omar N. Bradley.

He was a man of deep faith, spending time in prayer and daily devotionals. In his free time, he enjoyed fishing and spending time with his beloved dog, Biggie.

The family wants to thank Emergency 116 in Metamora and the Metamora Police Department for their care and concern.

Funeral Services will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 7, 2025, at Rock Church with Pastor Chuck Tate officiating. Visitation will be held from 4 - 7 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 6, 2025, at Mason Funeral Home Metamora Chapel. Burial will be in Oakwood Cemetery with military rites accorded by the Metamora American Legion Post #89. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Loras College, 1450 Alta Vista Street, Dubuque, IA 52001 or to The A.R.K. Humane Society, 477 State Route 26, Lacon, IL 61540. Online condolences at www.masonfuneralhomes.com.