Eugena Graham

Eugena B. Dean-Graham was born on May 22, 1929, to her late mother, Ivy Bernard, and her late father, Hylton Dean. She was born in the District of Blue Mountain Valley, Parish of St. Thomas, in Golden Valley, Jamaica. In 1971, Eugena was married and relocated to Atlanta, Georgia. She had a hand in caring for her stepdaughters, Jackie and Maxine Graham. She never had any children of her own.

Eugena outlived her entire family. She became a member of our family through our son, brother, father, and uncle, Shawn Patterson. They met in Atlanta, Georgia. Shortly after meeting, he became her caretaker. After years in Atlanta, he moved his family, along with Eugena, to Dayton, Ohio. Mama Gene became everyone’s favorite Jamaican grandma. Her big smile, bright eyes, sassy demeanor, and—let’s not forget—that Jamaican accent made her very lovable.

In November of 2024, we lost a piece of us, and she lost a piece of her. Her caretaker, protector, Shawn—whom she called “Papa”—passed away. Mama Gene grieved him for months, which was the start of her fading away. She held on as long as she could, fighting a good fight. We are the family that loved and cared for her until her last breath. Blood couldn’t make us any closer.

We all will cherish and remember you always: Ericka Patterson, Danielle Patterson (Greg), Shaleka Adamson, Tiera Turner (Marcus), Jamya Tate, Marshae Taylor, Marleah
Taylor, Antwan Turner, Earl Fleming (EJ) Jr., and a host of great-grands and friends.

“God blessed me with 96 long years. No need for sadness, no need for tears, for I have lived, and lived. My eyes have seen and my ears have heard, my hands have touched, my feet have walked, and my mind has learned. It’s my time to rest in the arms of the best. My Lord, I pray I passed the test.” •