Submitted by: Dan Rich
John Arthur Graves
Dec. 29, 1921 - Sept. 22, 2008
SOUTH BEND - Mr. John Arthur Graves,
a resident of South Walnut Street, South Bend, Indiana, passed
from this life at 5:10 a.m. on Monday, September 22, 2008, at
Memorial Hospital at the age of 85. On December 29, 1921, in
Osceola, Arkansas, John was born to the union of Herbert and Eva
(Bridges) Graves. Coming from Osceola, he relocated to
South Bend in the 1960's. He married Viola Barnes on
October 8, 1973 in South Bend. Mr. Graves served his country in
the Untied States Army during World War II. Following his
discharge, he was employed by South Bend Freight Company as a
truck driver, retiring in 1981 after 29 years of service. He was
a former member of Emanuel Church under the Pastorate of the late
Pastor Willie O. Coates, Sr. Also he was a diehard Notre Dame
Football fan as well as a fan of the Chicago Cubs. His memory
will be cherished by his widow, Viola; two sons, Michael (Penny)
Graves, stationed in Naples, Italy with the US Army and Samuel
(Stacey) Henderson of Memphis, TX; six grandchildren,
Karisse Spray, BriHany Henderson, Krystalyn Henderson,
Tylor Ann Graves, Tanner V. Graves and Matthew Graves; along with
other relatives. Preceding him in death along with his parents
were a son, Johnny A. Graves Jr.; and a sister, Nellie Newsome.
Funeral services for Mr. Graves will be held
at noon on Saturday, Sept. 27, 2008 in Alford's Mortuary with
Pastor Michael Patton, officiating. Visitation will occur one
hour prior to services at the chapel. Interment will follow at
Fairview Cemetery, Mishawaka. Arrangements have been entrusted to
Alford's Mortuary.