The Record Newspapers - Hometown News For Orange County, Texas

Richard A. Graves, Jr., 93, of St. John, FL, passed away Friday, March 2. Mr. Graves was born in Sparta, GA on Dec. 9, 1918 to Richard A. Graves and Meta Bryan Graves. The family moved to Jacksonville, FL where Mr. Graves attended Robert E Lee High School.

He attended the University of Florida and while working at the Federal Reserve Bank in Jacksonville, was drafted into the US Army where he served in the Finance Department. Upon discharge from the Army, Mr. Graves joined the William Tie Company and was with them until they closed their office in Jacksonville. He then joined National Container Company and was transferred to Bedford, VA when National Container was sold to Owens Illinois Glass Company.

In Bedford, Mr. Graves had the pleasure of serving on the vestry of St. John’s Episcopal Church as Senior Warrant. He was a member of the Board of Directors of Bedford Federal Savings & Loan Association, President of Bedford Country Club, and Treasurer, followed by President of Bedford Memorial Hospital.

Mr. Graves was transferred to Orange, with Owens Illinois where he retired after 34 years of service. In Orange, Mr. Graves served for seven years as Treasurer, followed by President of Sunset Grove Country Club.

In November 2010, Mr. Graves moved back to Jacksonville, FL. One of his pride and joys was the many meetings with his lifelong friends of The Royal Order of River Rats.

Survivors include son and daughter-in-law, Richard III and Sarah Graves of Alpharetta, GA; son, Robert Graves of Forest, VA; grandsons Richard IV and Parke Graves; brothers Bryan and Edwin Graves; and a wide circle of relatives and friends.

Mr. Graves was predeceased by his wife of 65 years, Mary Elizabeth Morrison Graves.

A memorial service was held at St. Patrick’s Episcopal Church, 1221 State Road 13, St. Johns, FL on Friday, March 9.

Donations may be made to St. Patrick’s Episcopal Church.