Page 6 - GIADA-May-2018-Final

THE PULSE OF GIADA

In Loving Memory of Billy Graham

May 20, 1956 – May 10, 2018

GIADA members,

Our close-knit GIADA family has taken a major loss. It’s
with a heavy heart and deep sorrow that I must share the sad
news of the passing of an exceptional person and my good
friend, Billy Graham, a gentle giant and an extraordinary
man like no other, passed away Thursday, May 10, 2018.
Just 10 days before his 62nd birthday.
Leaving the auction on the way to the GIADA office for a
meeting, Billy suffered cardiac arrest and passed away. By
the time help arrived, it was too late to revive him.
GIADA CEO, Paul John
Billy is survived by his wife Cindy; mother, Mary Ann
Graham; sisters, Kathy Kellogg and Terri Graham; children,
Austin Smith and Billy Jr.; step-children, Brandon Goddard, Jarrod Stockwell, and Rachael
Dudziak; father-in-law, Ken Goddard; mother-in-law, Pat Goddard; sister-in-law, Robyn
Johnson; brothers-in-law, Tom Kellogg and Rodney Johnson; niece, Angie Pickel; nephews,
Ed Pickel and Alex Johnson; and great-niece, Noel Pickel.

Good Morning Sunshine! How’s your day going so far? We hear you Billy!

Billy touched the hearts of many people in a way no one else could. He was a humble man who deeply cared about his family and friends.

I’ve known Billy Graham since 1994 and he has always been one of my closest friends. Billy was the type
of guy who really valued his friends. He would routinely call me just to ask how my day was going.

Over the course of many years, he gave much of his time to the GIADA and the automotive industry, an
industry he deeply cared about. Billy proudly carried the torch for all independent-car dealers. He was
a true champion in his profession and loved the car business. When he encouraged other dealers to get
involved with GIADA, he was often asked, “Why should I? You’re doing
such a great job.” Billy was a rising star at the NIADA where he served
as Region 2 VP. He couldn’t have been more passionate the way he
approached life each and every day.

Billy left a hole in my heart and in many others, which will probably
be empty for a long time. While he may not be with us anymore, Billy
Graham will never be forgotten. I’m going to do everything I can to
make sure his name lives on forever.

A celebration of Billy Graham's life ensued at Tom Wages Funeral Home in Snellville, GA on May 15,
2018. Literally hundreds of people came to show their love and support. Billy was laid to rest in the warm
embrace of friends and family shortly after the funeral. Although this loss is difficult for the numerous
people he impacted, the legacy he left behind will be long-lasting.
Thank you, God, for blessing us with Billy’s presence. He will surely be missed by many.
R.I.P. Billy Graham!

4 | GIADA Independent Auto Dealer MAY 2018