BERNARD CHASE GRAHAM, JR. , affectionately known to family and friends as Bernie, passed away peacefully on September 12, 2025, at the University of Maryland Medical Center.

Born on October 9, 1956, to Frances Viola and the late Bernard Chase Graham, Sr., Bernard graduated from Walbrook High School and later attended Morgan State University. He married Victoria Riddick on November 26, 1986. Together they raised their son, Dearis, who was the joy of his life.

Bernard worked as a printing press operator before moving to Glen Burnie, Maryland. In recent years, he was the Property Manager for the family of Mrs. Daisy Dubose, his mother's dear friend. In addition, Bernard was a Test Proctor for the Maryland Bar Examination. Until his health began to decline in 2024, he was his mother's primary caregiver.

Bernard's life was defined by his quiet strength, loyalty, and service to others. He showed his love not with words, but through action. Whether he was helping Dearis with a house project, staying with his sister-in-law's children after her unexpected passing, or patient sitting in a hospital with an extended family member, Bernard could always be counted on when someone was in need.

In 2008, Bernard found his passion when he joined the Improved Benevolent Protective Order of Elks of the World. As a proud member of the Spirit of the Chesapeake Elk Lodge #1107, he aligned with the organization's values of charity, justice, brotherly love, and fidelity. He served as Exalted Ruler beginning in 2013. Bernard remained in that role until his passing, finding both purpose and brotherhood in this community.

Things Bernard loved: The Baltimore Ravens, watching old Gun Smoke reruns, fishing (especially with JC or his God children), Pam's shrimp salad, Iris' 5 flavor pound cake, and anything Gwen cooked. His favorite candies were Mike and Ike's, Hot Tamales and Butter Fingers. Lay's potato chips didn't last 5 seconds around him. His last meal was 3 cookies (snickerdoodle, oatmeal and chocolate chip) from the Great Cookie kiosk in the hospital.

As a member of The New Metropolitan Baptist Church, faith and fellowship were important parts of Bernard's spiritual journey. On the last day that he was able to speak, he said he needed to leave the hospital to go to church. His life was a testament to the quiet power of service and love—steady, dependable, and selfless. His presence will be deeply missed, but his example lives on in the many lives he touched.

Bernard is survived by his loving family and friends.