October 1, 1962 – July 20, 2025
Tribute by Eric Waters, Class of ’94
With profound sorrow and abundant love, we announce the passing of Mark Anthony Graham, beloved husband, father, brother, and friend, who transitioned from this life on July 20, 2025, at the age of 62.
Born on October 1, 1962, Mark lived a life marked by deep faith, compassion, and unwavering dedication to family and community. A proud graduate of New York Theological Seminary, where he earned his Master of Divinity, Mark centered his life’s work around the teachings of Christ—particularly inspired by The Rising of Lazarus (Luke 11:1–44), a scripture that embodied his belief in transformation, redemption, and hope.
In 2007, Mark founded The Redemption Center, a nonprofit organization devoted to providing housing and wraparound services for individuals returning home from prisons and jails. His work became a beacon of healing, dignity, and second chances, leaving a legacy that will continue to uplift lives for generations.
Mark’s proudest title, however, was Dad. When his son Gabriel was born, Mark instantly became a protector and nurturer. He didn’t allow Gabriel out of his sight in those first precious moments, and whenever he held him, it was with a love that resonated deeply. The birth of Gabriel marked the birth of an amazing father.
Mark’s love extended far and wide. When his daughters Amesha and Alesha Arjune arrived in New York City, Mark—alongside his wife Elinie, and baby Gabriel—welcomed them with open arms. It was a reunion that birthed a strong and ever-growing family bond, one that Mark nurtured with pride, patience, and boundless love. He supported his children tirelessly, always proud of every step they took, no matter how small, and he pushed them beyond limits because he believed deeply in their potential.
Mark leaves behind his devoted wife, Elinie Graham, and his cherished children: Gabriel Graham, Amesha Arjune, Alesha Arjune, and Adren Griffin.
He is also survived by his “heart siblings,” Anjahni Davi, Eric Waters, who share the same birthday, and additional siblings on both his father’s and mother’s side; beloved in-laws Liloutie Singh, Gharbaran Singh, and Eric Persaud.
Mark was preceded in death by his mother, Betty Lee Graham, his father, Larry Sligh, and his sister, Felecia King. He is remembered with love by his aunt, Ojetta Chaplin, other aunts and uncles, cousins, and his siblings Larry Harris, Lenora Harris, Tanya Campbell, Tara Callender, Shelbra Hemingway, Barbara Graham, Shareena Graham, Janeeva Graham, Vernis R. Graham, Linwood Graham, Andre Graham, and Renard Graham. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-great-nieces, each of whom he held dear.
Mark’s circle of love extended to countless friends, including Robert Ehrenberg, Jeffrey Berman, Nurdeen Russell, Simeko, and many more whose lives were enriched by his presence.
Mark lived with a passionate commitment to justice, restoration, and love. His life was a ministry of action, his home a sanctuary of warmth, and his heart a wellspring of faith. While we mourn his physical absence, we celebrate the extraordinary light he brought into this world.
“I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die…” —John 11:25
‘UNBIND HIM!”
Mark Graham Anjahni Davi Low Brown