Bob Graham to lie in state at Old Capitol Friday, private funeral thereafter

The celebration of the life of one of Florida’s most memorable elected leaders continues.

Bob Graham will lie in state in Florida’s Historic Capitol from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday, April 26.

Following that, there will be a private funeral service for family members.

Yet people who knew him best will have a chance after that to memorialize him publicly at a service in his hometown on May 11 at the Miami Lakes United Church of Christ.

Graham — a former two-term state legislator, two-term state Senator, two-term Governor, one-time presidential candidate and three-term United States Senator — spent close to four decades in public service.

He is known for his work to bolster education, the Florida economy and environmental projects, notably the Everglades.

During his career in the federal government, he cast a long shadow as well, with his oversight of intelligence services and his willingness to buck the consensus when needed.

He was an early opponent of the President George W. Bush–era war in Iraq, and he was a staunch proponent of bringing out inconvenient facts about the role of Saudi nationals in aiding and abetting the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, a push that continued long after he left office.

In recognition of Graham’s undeniable legacy, Gov. Ron DeSantis earlier this week ordered flags to be flown at half-staff through the date of his interment at all local and state buildings, installations and grounds throughout the state.

Those seeking to honor his life are encouraged to do so via helping to bolster his legacy, with donations to the Bob Graham Center for Public Service at the University of Florida.