Evelyn Graham

Evelyn Alta (Sorenson) Graham was born June 18, 1919 in Helena, Montana, the only child of Anna Christ and Forrest “Frosty” Sorenson. Evelyn grew up in the Helena community, where she was baptized & confirmed in the Methodist faith. She received her elementary education at the Central Grade School and finished her secondary education at Helena High School, graduating in 1938.

From 1940 to 1948 she lived in Deer Lodge, where she met and married William Lightfoot. Her husband passed away in 1950.

Evelyn left Montana in 1955 to work at the office of Dr. Lindsay in Ritzville. While there she met Ivan Graham, whom she married in 1956. The Graham’s were married 21 years when Ivan passed away in 1977.

Evelyn never had any children and her only family members were several first, second, and third cousins. She was fortunate to have good health and continued to live independently in Ritzville into her 90’s.

In February of 2014 Evelyn moved to Chester, Montana to be near one of her close cousins, Sharon and Don VanDessel. She initially moved to the Sweetgrass Retirement Lodge, and then transferred to the local nursing home. She died peacefully at the Liberty Medical Center in Chester on the early morning of Sunday, August 24, at the age of 95.

Evelyn was active in the Eastern Star and was a life member of the Josephine Hepner Chapter No. 89 in Helena. During her years in Ritzville she was a 25-year member of the Ralston Grange, past president of the Gritman Senior Center, and longtime member of the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 51 where she served as president several times.

She enjoyed yard work and flowers. In addition she liked to play cards with her friends.

Evelyn was cremated per her wishes. No formal services are planned. Her ashes will be buried with her parents at the Forestvale Cemetery in Helena. Arrangements are by Rockman Funeral Chapel in Chester.