Beatrice Graham

Beatrice Hollins Graham, affectionately known as "Aunt Bea" or "Bea" departed this life to be with the Lord on August 20, 2017, at the blessed age of 104 years. Beatrice was born March 23, 1913, to the late Alberta Trapp Hollins and Wesley Hollins. She grew up in her hometown of Blythewood, South Carolina and attended the public schools in Fairfield County. She relocated to Norfolk, Connecticut in 1942. Beatrice subsequently moved to Newark, New Jersy, where she lived for many years until she returned to South Carolina and ultimately moved to high Point, North Carolina to be close to her immediate family.

Beatrice was raised in a loving Christian home and accepted Jesus Christ as her personal Savior at a young age. She was baptized as a member of Zion Pilgrim Baptist Church in Winnsboro, South Carolina. Beatrice was a devoted Christian and during her years in New Jersey, she was a member of Mount Calvary Baptist Church. She subsequently attended New Bethel Baptist Church in High Point, North Carolina.

Beatrice was married to the late Walter Graham. Of this union, two children were born: Barbara Graham Lee and Charles Theodore Graham, who preceded Beatrice in death. Beatrice was a loving and committed mother and gave selflessly to ensure that she provided her children with the best foundation possible.

Beatrice was educated in the school of her life through her many varied experiences confirming that education is not preparation for life but rather, education is life itself. She was employed as a domestic worker for many years and showed the same dedication and commitment to her work that she did to her family and to her faith.

Aunt Bea absolutely adored her family and was beloved as the Hollins family matriarch. She had an amazing memory and an uncanny ability to recall names, birthdates and other events. She would often surprise her many nieces and nephews with a birthday phone call when it was least expected; and she did so well into her elderly years. Aunt Bea loved to share her knowledge of her family history and her life experiences with anyone who would listen. She was always willing to share the story of how the Hollins family came to South Carolina whenever she was asked. Aunt Bea also shared her vast life experiences. It was fascinating to hear her perspective on the many changes in our world that she was blessed to experience during her 104 years on this earth.

Beatrice loved to read and particularly enjoyed reading the Bible. She also enjoyed crosswords puzzles, traveling and most of all, spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren, who lovingly called her "Nana" and "Grandma B." In August of last year, at the age of 103, Aunt Bea traveled from High Point, North Carolina to Atlanta, Georgia to be with her family at the Hollins Family Reunion. Although the ride was long and it was late when she arrived, Aunt Bea insisted on remaining in the hotel lobby so that she could meet and greet everyone in the family. It was truly a joyous occasion.

After the blessing of 104 years, God called His daughter home to rest from labor to reward, from trials to triumph. Early on Sunday morning, Beatrice spread her wings and flew away to a restful place, where suffering would be no more. Beatrice leaves to cherish her memory: her loving and devoted daughter, Barbara Graham Lee; a daughter-in-law, Patricia Graham; eight adoring grandchildren, Cheresa Wright (Frederick), Malik Graham (Jerrett), Rasheda Lee, Cherai Graham, Qumara Lee, Karim Graham (Wanelle), Sultan Ali and LaToya Timmons; twenty-four great-grandchildren and seven great-great grandchildren and many loving nieces, nephews, a host of other relatives and friends.