Westbrook- Lawrence “Larry” Everett Graffam, age 69, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on December 21, 2023, after a courageous battle with Cancer.
He was born in Portland, Maine on June 29, 1954, a son of the late Everett W. Graffam and Jean E. (Witham) Graffam.
After attending Portland Schools, Larry was employed and worked for Blanchard Disposal for 20 years and then became a well-known taxi driver for many years before retiring.
Larry was a member of the Amvets Post 25 in Portland and through the years he befriended many and considered them all family.
Larry enjoyed life to the fullest. He was an avid sports fan and looked forward to Football Sunday, Nascar Races and of course watching the Boston Red Sox. He enjoyed spending time with his family. He enjoyed playing the guitar and spoons with friends. He loved listening to the music icon George Jones.
He is predeceased by both parents, a brother- Wayne Graffam, Sisters- Sandra Herring and Jackie Ramsey, Brother-in-Law- Curtis Ballentine and his lifelong partner of 38 years - Kathleen Bennett.
Larry is survived by his brothers- Randy Graffam of Portland, Terry, and wife Terry Graffam of Westbrook. Sisters-Darlene Ballantine of Portland, Deborah Broad of Portland, Janice and her husband Joseph Herring of Portland, Gail Graffam of Cumberland, and Sheila Graffam of Portland. He is also survived by 3 children, Timothy Bennett (Pam) of Windham, Tonya Bennett (Jeff) of Westbrook and Tabitha Lara (David) of Franklin, TN. He leaves behind his grandchildren and great grandchildren, Dylan Hunter, Paige, Grace, Faith, Jackson, Lilly, Abel and Daelyn and many nieces and nephews.
A special thank you to Paulene Barden who was a support system for Tonya during the last few weeks of his life. She and Larry may have departed ways but still remained in each other’s lives.
Many thanks to Larry’s oncology team: Dr. Dugan and Dr. Wrona who walked through each step of this journey with us.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 13, 2024, at 1 pm at the Amvets Post 25. Portland, ME 04101. Burial will be private and take place in the Spring where he will be laid to rest with Kathleen Bennett at the Forest City Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Hospice of Southern Maine, 390 US Rte. 1, Scarborough, Maine 04074 for their support and comfort of Larry in his final weeks.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Chad E. Poitras Cremation and Funeral Service, Buxton, www.mainefuneral.com