Graham P. Jarvis, 72; Longtime Character Actor

Graham P. Jarvis, a familiar character actor with a comedic image who worked steadily in films, television and theater for five decades, died Wednesday of multiple myeloma at his home in Pacific Palisades. He was 72.

Perhaps best remembered for his role as Charlie Haggers in the 1970s series "Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman," Jarvis more recently turned up in such diverse series as "7th Heaven" and "Six Feet Under."

Jarvis was born in Toronto and began acting at 19 in a production of "The Seven Year Itch" in a small theater company in Virginia.

He attended Williams College before moving on to New York City in the early 1950s to pursue a career in theater.

Jarvis studied acting at the American Theater Wing and was an original member of the Lincoln Center Repertory Theater.

His theater career included roles in productions as wide-ranging as "The Best Man," "Much Ado About Nothing" and "The Rocky Horror Show."

Active in community affairs, Jarvis spent time teaching English to youths at Camp Holton, a juvenile rehabilitation and probation center in the San Fernando Valley.

He also sang in the choir at his church.

Regarding his acting career, Jarvis recently told his wife: "For me, it was the roles that mattered. Sometimes, the more obscure ones satisfied me the most, but they all made me have a lovely time, and I was lucky to be around."

He is survived by his wife, JoAnna Rader; two children, Matthew and Alex; and a sister, Kitty Blair.

The family suggested that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to his favorite charities: Common Cause, Amnesty International and the Democratic National Committee.

A memorial service is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. today at the Unitarian Universalist Community Church, 1260 18th St., Santa Monica.