Kelton

Graham

Kelton Graham, age 64, has officially left the building as of August 12, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones. If you asked him how he wanted to go, he would have told you, "on my own terms." And true to form, Kelton lived every single day of his life under the proud banner of: "I did it my way."

Kelton was born in Sweetwater, TX on May 14, 1962, and was the youngest son of Richard "Dick" Graham and Beverley Ann Rasberry Stone. He spent his childhood in Austell, GA.

Kelton had a long and storied career with Dr Pepper, following in his father's footsteps. He dedicated over 35 years to the company. He began as an Account Sales Manager for the Dr Pepper / Seven-Up Company in 1989 and rose steadily through the ranks; National Account Manager, Director of Sales at Cadbury Schweppes Americas Beverages, and Managing Director of Sales and Marketing at Dr Pepper Snapple Group before capping his career as Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Keurig Dr Pepper, a role he held for sixteen years.

Kelton spent his career actively ignoring unsolicited advice, building a legendary reputation as a salesperson and sales manager extraordinaire, and changing the energy of every room he walked into. He was a master at closing the deal, tearing up the standard corporate playbook, and turning a simple business account into a lifelong bond. For Kelton, relationships weren't a professional strategy, they were a way of life.

Kelton was a motivated and passionate individual who looked for the positive in everyday life. He was seen as a mentor, friend, and family by many around him. His generosity was matched only by his desire to make sure everyone around him had a good time. He opened his home (aka "the web") to anyone and always made sure there was an unforgettable party to be had. He had a deep love for sports, especially the Texas Longhorns and Dallas Cowboys, which brought him both joy and, at times, extreme stress. Kelton played football throughout his youth, from Little League to high school, where he was known to "give them a leg, take it away."

Kelton was preceded in death by both of his parents. He is survived by his wife, Kara Graham; his Son, Auston Graham; his step daughters, Lynn Portwood, Amber Robinson; and his step sons; Scott Brewer, and C.J. Brewer; his grandchildren, Reese Graham, Max & Dylan Portwood, and Mason & Hayden Robinson; his brother, Creig Graham; his niece, Kendall Graham; and numerous cousins.

The funeral will be held at McCoy's Funeral Home in Sweetwater, TX,  on Saturday August 29,2026 at 11:00 at McCoy Chapel and a celebration of life will take place in September in Dallas, TX.