GRAHAM, Phyllis "Cookie" - Peacefully at the Sault Area Hospital, with her family by her side on Wednesday, June 18, 2025 at the age of 86.
Loving wife of 65 years to Roy Graham. Cherished mother of Joey Graham (Lisa), Johnny Graham, Bryan Graham and Sam Graham (Brigette). Proud Gramma Cook of Daniel (Vicki), Marcus, Ethan, Kaitlyn, Joey ( Kelsi), Jessica (Dan), Jade (Daeson), Jenna, Jazlyn, Faith, Chantalle, William (Rachael) and the late Sammy Jr. Beloved daughter of the late John and Ardemia Maniacco. Dear sister of Chelia Tomchak (late Chuck), Joseph Maniacco (Nancy) and predeceased by Joan Maycock (late Harry, late Nick), Aldo Maniacco (late Kathy) and Irma Kustura (late Jim). Loving sister in law to Gail Zufelt (late Bill), Judy Lahaye (late Tom) and predeceased by Don Graham (late Maxine), Pat Fioramanti (late Tony) and Ken Graham (Shelley). Cookie will continue to hold a special place in her heart and be deeply missed by Sherrie, Nancie, Pam, Robin and Melanie
Gramma Cook will be sadly missed by 13 great grandchildren and by many nieces and nephews. Cookie was also a mother, grandma and best friend to many. Cookie had a heart of gold and would go out of her way to help anyone in need. She along with her husband started Roy Graham Trucking in 1967 and continued to run the company with a fleet of up to 10 trucks, while running a household and raising 4 boys along with foster kids. Mom was the book keeper, financial advisor, HR Manager, Marketing and payroll manager, all giving her the title of owner (lol). Mom also managed to go back to high school and earned credits toward her grade 12. Most teenage boys would be embarrassed by this but not her boys, they loved seeing her there and hugging her in the hallways. Mom always looked to improve her skills whenever she had opportunity. Cookie also volunteered her time and knowledge completing income taxes for strangers, friends and family every year. She also volunteered as school yard monitor.
In 2005 the company advanced from paper ledgers to computerized software. My mother quickly caught on to the advancement of technology. She loved browsing the internet, games and Facebook. In her very little free time she loved to go bowling, play bingo and host amazing Christmas parties. Everyone was welcome and she would cook for days to prepare always with a smile and no complaints. Her pasta sauce was out of this world with her meatballs, chicken, sausage and steak and whatever else she could put in there. She never missed an opportunity to tell you how proud she was of her kids and grand kids accomplishments. Mom always made sure to provide gifts for everyone on their birthdays and Christmas and any other holidays, she spared no expense.
My mother didn't leave us empty handed, she left us with her kindness and generosity, compassion and love towards family, friends and strangers. There are not enough words to describe this amazing woman we have lost, and the impact she will forever have on our lives. Anyone who knew her was truly blessed by an angel on this earth. Special thanks to SAH emergency department for their care and compassion, also special thanks to the staff at the Finnish Rest Home Mauno Kaila Koti for their special care of Cookie for the last year and a half.
Friends may visit at the Arthur Funeral Home - Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington Street E. 705-759-2522) on Monday, June 23, 2025 from 11:00 am until time of funeral service in the chapel at 1:00 pm. Rev. Helen Smith officiating. Interment Greenwood Cemetery. Memorial contributions (payable online or by cheque) to ARCH would be appreciated by the family. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.arthurfuneralhome.com for the Graham family.