Dr. Graham Kash was born in Nashville in 1937. He leaves a legacy at Tech, and stood as a voice of reason for many. Kash passed away in January at the age of 87.
Kash started his career as a Golden Eagle in 1963 as a speech and literature instructor. He retired as full professor in July 2024 after 61 years of service. He was an educator for many but for alumni Elliot Payne, Kash meant so much more. Payne adored Kash during their time as a student and often spoke highly of Kash.
“The work Dr. Kash put into teaching, public speaking, and folklore at TTU stands as a testament to his character. In that time he touched the lives of thousands of students,” Payne shared, Kash loved folklore and was a known Bigfoot enthusiast. In addition to his love of folklore he was also a fan of folk music and regularly attended festivals, sometimes performing harmonica.
“Dr. Kash had a proud influence on me as a student, debater, and a person… He demonstrated a kindness and humility that I can only hope to emulate in my life,” Payne shared.
Payne served as a member of the speech and debate team, also known as Pi Kappa Delta, under Kash’s direction. Kash coached the team for several decades.
Kash’s time as a Golden Eagle brought him several awards including a Writer’s Digest honorary mention, the Marquis Who’s Who “Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award”, as
well as many others. Though his greatest reward was the family the university helped him build. Kash met his wife, Bettye Ruth Kash, also a long time faculty member, through an on-campus folk music group. The two were happily married until Bettye passed away in March 2024. Kash left behind his daughters, Heather Batchelor and her husband Mike of Madison, Alabama, and Holly Schauer and her husband Aaron of Portland, Oregon. He also leaves behind four beloved grandsons Brett, Blake, Matthew and David.
Dr. Scott Christen, interim chair of the Department of Communication, shared that Kash was a creative spirit right until the end. He noted Kash was finishing one of his many plays before passing. Christen also shared, “He will always be remembered for his compassion, enthusiasm and dedication. It was a privilege to call him my colleague.”
Payne also shared how he treasures his time with Kash, “I can say with confidence there is no greater honor I carry with me from my time at TTU than having known Dr. Kash.” A scholarship endowment has been created in remembrance of Bettye and Graham Kash. You can donate to the fund “Celebrate the Kash Legacy” on GOFUNDME.com.
While services for Kash proceeded Jan 9, 2025, friends of Kash are welcome to attend a Celebration of Life for both Bettye and Graham Kash, planned for July 2025 at Tech.
