Matthew Ross Graham

Matthew Ross Graham, age 69, passed away Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at his home in Swatara Township. Born August 22, 1956, in the hospital in Grove City, PA, he was the son of the late A.E. “Ted” and F. Gertrude (Hollibaugh) Graham and was also preceded in death by his oldest brother: G. Meade Graham in 2016.

When Matthew was seven he and his parents moved from Stoneboro, PA to Sarasota, FL. There he became a member of Children’s Haven where he was taught to print. Matthew was hindered by Down Syndrome and Children’s Haven taught him many crafts, including repairing cane chairs. It was during this time in Florida that Matthew started what would become an almost 50-year tradition of competing in the Special Olympics, notably bike riding, basketball, and swimming, among other sports. In 1999, he and his family returned to Pennsylvania, moving to Enhaut to live with his sister Ella and her husband Jack. He continued his involvement with the Special Olympics, this time swimming and long-distance walking. Walking brought Matthew great joy, especially when it provided him with an opportunity to meet new people. He also worked for Goodwill Industries, where he was responsible for keeping the store ready for customers each day.

In October 2022, he moved to “Complete Homecare”, where he passed away peacefully due to complications of age and pneumonia.

Matthew is survived by his sisters: Ella Graham Huggins, Enhaut and Emma G. Burris, Old Town, FL; one brother: A Edwin Graham, Punta Gorda, FL; and many loving nieces and nephews and their families.

A service will be held 1:00 pm Monday, July 27, 2026, at Matthew’s church, St. John’s Lutheran Church, 39 N. 2nd St., Steelton with Rev. RoseMary Tonkin, his pastor, officiating.

Contributions in his memory may be made to Special Olympics Pennsylvania- Capital Area Region, 30 E. Shady Lane, Enola, 17025 or to his church, St. John’s Lutheran Church, 39 N. 2nd St., Steelton, 17113.

Kimmel Funeral Home, Harrisburg, is handling arrangements.