Obituary of Jason Michael "Jay" Graham, Sydney, Tower Road

Jason Michael "Jay" Graham, age 44, the man with the biggest heart and kindest soul, left us suddenly on May 24th, 2024.  We will miss him for the rest of our days.

Jason’s life began in Glace Bay on November 28th, 1979.  Born to Brian and Michele (Morrison) Graham. He grew up on Tower Road for most of his life, with a short stint in Birch Grove.  His heart was always on Tower Road where he spent most of his days with his “Ma” and “Da” Graham who spoiled him rotten (as grandparents do).   In his early 20’s he was diagnosed with a mental health condition and battled it until the end.  There were many good moments throughout those years, including the birth of his 2 girls, Elizabeth and Emily, which only made him fight harder.  The girls were his entire world.  Loving them unconditionally with his whole heart and telling anyone who would listen just that while sharing all the stories and proud moments he had of them.  

He also had a passion for helping others afflicted by mental health and addiction issues.  He became an active member at Crossroads Clubhouse in 2019 where he became a certified peer support worker.  He volunteered many hours listening to and helping others and said it was more rewarding than any paid job.  Recently, he was employed at Sobeys in Sydney River and made many new friends in both colleagues and customers.  Once you met him you wanted to be his friend, so this is not surprising. He loved music and could often be found playing his guitar, listening, or researching everything there is to know about it. He could tell you the title, artist, and history of any song by just giving him a few words. His other passions were anything outdoors, especially fishing, and cheering on his favorite team the Edmonton Oilers.

Besides his parents and girls, he is survived by his sister Ashley Graham, mother of his children Kamy Cameron (Blair), girlfriend Nadine Scott, Uncles Wayne Graham (Anne), Allen Graham (Linda), Brent Morrison (Elaine), Kyle Morrison, Jerry MacGillivary (Lorraine), Aunts Tanya Campbell (Glen) and Chrissy Gould.  He is also survived by many cousins, great aunts/uncles, and friends, especially his special friend/mentor Mary Lou, who was so kind to him over the years and was the voice in his head that said, “what would Mary Lou think?”.

Jason was predeceased by his paternal grandparents Edwin and Mary Graham, maternal grandparents George and Ellen Morrison, aunt Kimberly Morrison, uncles Bradley Morrison and Pat Gould.

Heartfelt thanks go to the incredible ICU team, especially Dr. Thana and nurses Emily and Brennan.  Your sincere kindness and compassion will never be forgotten.  Further, the family want to thank and send so much appreciation to the mental health department at the CBRH, especially Brittany and nurse Jamie.  Finally, special thanks to the Community Housing staff. Thank you for providing a safe and supportive environment for Jason over the past few years.

Donations may be made to the Crossroads Clubhouse or to Mental Health Services at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital

Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held in V.J. McGillivray Funeral Home , 16 Reserve Street, Glace Bay on Thursday, May 30th, 2024 from 6-9 pm. Interment in Greenwood Cemetery.

On line condolences to the family can be expressed at: www.vjmcgillivray.ca

“But my heart is not weary, it’s light and it’s free.  I’ve got nothing but affection for all those who’ve sailed with me”… Bob Dylan