James Louis ("8 Ball") Graves

Burlington

Deacon James Louis “8 Ball” Graves age 89 of 1712 McCray Rd. transitioned from labor to reward on June 16, 2020 while at Cone Health ARMC.

Deacon Graves was the son of the late Mr. John Graves and the late Mrs. Minnie Alice Yellock Graves.  James Louis was a graduate of Pleasant Grove Union High School.  He was employed for many years with Wicker Trucking Co. and Bryds Food Stores.  He served his community as a volunteer firefighter for Pleasant Grove Fire Department.  He loved working on cars and was an avid pool player, this is how he obtained the nickname of "8 Ball".

The love of his life was his many grandchildren, his biggest joy would come as he would sit on the porch in his rocking chair and share stories with them.

James Louis Graves was a member of Warrens Chapel Missionary Baptist Church where he served on the Deacon Board and at one time he was the Sunday school president.  He will be missed by his family, many friends and the community.

His life and legacy will be forever cherished by his loving wife of 63 years, Mrs. Frances Walker Graves; children, James Gregory Graves, Harold Graves (Tamatha), Ronnie Graves, Stacy Graves, Beatrice Graves, Iris Graves, Lisa Graves, Cassandra G. Vanhook (Jerry), Gwendolyn G. Williamson and Tamika G. Woods (Lamont); 21 grandchildren; 26 great grandchildren and one brother, John “J.W” Graves (Helen).  His extended family, Jaime and Amanda Guerro.

Deacon Graves was preceded in death by siblings, Walter Graves, Hassie Mae Malone and Maggie Newman.

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