Sen. Lindsey Graham Memorial Services Announced; Sister Darline Graham Sworn In and Eyes Full Senate Term

Washington, D.C. — The Capitol will echo with remembrance next week as colleagues gather to celebrate the life of Sen. Lindsey Graham, who died suddenly on July 11 at age 71. The Senate’s office confirmed that a memorial service is slated for Tuesday, July 28, with the venue believed to be the historic Washington National Cathedral, though final details are still being finalized.

Following the D.C. ceremony, two more services will be held on Wednesday, July 29, back in South Carolina – one in Columbia, the state capital, and another in Pickens County, the area where Graham grew up and represented in Congress. These gatherings aim to reflect both his national influence and deep roots in the Palmetto State.

Graham, a five‑term Republican who often stood alongside President Donald Trump, was born in Central, South Carolina, in 1955 and graduated from Daniel High School in 1973. The District of Columbia Medical Examiner’s preliminary report cites an “aortic dissection due to arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease” as the cause of death.

In a swift move, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster appointed Graham’s sister, Darline Graham, to fill the vacant seat. She was sworn in on Tuesday, becoming the first woman from the state to assume the role under such circumstances. Trump called the appointment “a fabulous tribute” to his late friend.

Just days later, Trump urged Darline to run in the upcoming special primary election, a step that would let her potentially retain the seat beyond the interim appointment. Speaking to Fox News on Monday, Darline confirmed she will pursue a full six‑year term while completing the remainder of her brother’s unfinished term.

"I’ve been praying a lot, talking to my family," she said. "I learned that hard‑working spirit from Lindsey. He cared for the people of this state, and I’ve spent nearly three decades serving them too. I feel an inner peace about it, even though it will be difficult."

Darline Graham, a Lexington resident, brings a long résumé of public service to the Senate. Since 2019 she has led the South Carolina Commission for the Blind, sits on the State Workforce Development Board, and is president‑elect of the National Council of State Agencies for the Blind. Her prior roles include positions with Clemson University, the state’s Department of Employment and Workforce, and the Department of Vocational Rehabilitation.

The Republican primary for the special election is scheduled for Aug. 11, with a possible runoff two weeks later if no candidate wins an outright majority. The winner will appear on the Nov. 3 general‑election ballot.