Katie Jo "K.K." Graham (54) of Hattiesburg, MS, passed away peacefully on December 7, 2024. She was born to Audis Taylor Jr. and Evelyn Peacock on November 9, 1970, in Delhi, LA.

Katie graduated from Oak Grove High School in 1988 and earned her Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education from the University of Southern Mississippi in 1995.

As a teacher, Katie dedicated over two decades of her life to shaping young minds in the Lamar and Forrest County school districts. She was instrumental in launching "The Christmas Store," now known as "Katie's Christmas Store," at the Dixie Attendance Center. This initiative, funded by The Dixie Outreach Project, allows students to purchase gifts for their families for $1.00 or less, a tradition that continues to bring joy to the community.

In addition to her educational contributions, Katie was a Crown Presidential Director with FirstFitness Nutrition for over four years. She was a pillar of leadership and inspiration, guiding countless individuals on their health and wellness journeys. The legacy of lives she touched through her dedication to teaching and wellness will endure for generations.

Above all, Katie was a devoted wife, mother, sister, and friend. Her greatest pride and joy came from the family and community she cherished deeply. The wisdom and love she imparted to her children were rooted in her unwavering faith. Her affection for her husband, Jeffrey, was a beautiful example of love and partnership, setting a model for their children to follow.

Katie was preceded in death by her father, Taylor Hegan; her stepmother, Dr. Eileen Silva; her grandparents, Calvin and Evelyn Bunch, Marie Colburn, and Josephine Ruff; her father-in-law, Joe Graham; and her brother-in-law, Jeremy "Herm" Graham.

She is survived by her loving husband, Jeffrey Graham of Hattiesburg; her children, Abbie Graham (fiancé, Dalton Fleming) of Hattiesburg, and Tanner Graham (fiancé, Hanah Tyree) of Hattiesburg; her cherished grandchildren, Shepherd Riggs, John Luke Riggs, Bryn Graham, and Berklee Graham; her mother, Evelyn Peacock of Hattiesburg; her brothers, Trey Hegan of Frisco, TX, and Michael Chancellor of Hattiesburg; her sisters-in-law, Kim Riggs (Timmy) of Hattiesburg and Nickie Graham (Don) of Hattiesburg; her brother-in-law, Tim Graham (Melissa) of Hattiesburg; her stepmother, Betty Chancellor (Mike) of Mississippi; her mother-in-law, Peggy Graham of Hattiesburg; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends whom she loved dearly.

Katie's life was one of service, love, and inspiration. Her impact will be felt for years through the countless lives she touched and the values she instilled in those around her.

Visitation will be Friday, December 13, 2024 from 11:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. at Dixie United Methodist Church with services immediately following at 3 p.m. Burial will be in the church cemetery. A reception will follow after the services at the church.

Date of Service

Friday December 13, 2024

Dixie United Methodist Church

136 Dixie Church Rd

Hattiesburg, MS 39401

Reception (After Service)

Dixie United Methodist Church

Hattiesburg, MS