Ralph Fletcher Graves III known lovingly by his family as “Jr” was born June 20, 1945 in Jacksonville, Florida. His father Ralph presides in St. Petersburg, Fl, and his mother Agnes “Frances” preceded him in death.
During his early childhood Ralph joined the Boy Scouts of America at St. Pius Catholic school. This experience impacted his life so much that he made the choice to follow the Catholic faith and converted to Catholicism where he remained until his passing away.
Ralph attended the Jacksonville public schools and upon completion was drafted by the United States Army where he served two tours of active duty in Viet Nam. Afterwards, Ralph resided in Rockford, Illinois where he worked on the assembly line for General Motors until the plant was moved to Terre Haute, Indiana. Subsequent to moving, he became employed with J.I. Case as a welder until early retirement. As a result of a disability obtained while employed with the military, he moved to St. Petersburg, Fl and was treated at Bay Pines Veterans Hospital throughout the final days of his illness.
He leaves to cherish his fond memories; father, Ralph F. Graves Jr., (Delores);brothers David (Cathy)Jax, Reginald (Brenda)Jax, Clarence Mitchell Jax; sisters Gwendolyn Richardson Jax, Brenda Ford (James) Jax; Best Friend Wendell McMillan (Clearwater); a host of nieces, nephews and friends.
We’ll miss you and your calm approach
To the problems that you did face
Your devotion and patience with those you loved
Will be a plus in God’s great place.
Good bye and we love you,
The Family
I remember Ralph as my Class mate and neighbor. He was a very nice and good person,always fun. My friend you will be missed. I know now that you are well and safe in the arms of the Lord.
With our deepest sympathy, Please know that God’s Love surrounds you as a Family. Giving you strength during your time of pain. Many thoughts and prayers are with you. Your many friends and Class Mates, New Stanton Sr., High School – Jacksonville, FL
To our dear sister, Brenda, and to the entire Graves Family: We love you, and we are praying for you.
“Praise the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! He is the Father who is compassionate and the God who gives comfort. He comforts us whenever we suffer.” (2 Corinthians 1:3-4a)
To my sister, Mrs. Brenda Ford, and the Graves family, you’re in my thoughts and prayers. May God continuously comfort, encourage, strengthen and sustain you during this season in your life. He can heal and remove any sorrow earth has. Love you!
To our beloved sister, Brenda Ford (the Energizer Bunny), and the entire Graves Family, we love you very much and we are holding you up in our prayers. May our Father, the God of all grace keep you in perfect peace at this time. Know that we are here for you.
To Our Friend and Sister Brenda Ford
May the Lord continue to surround you with His goodness and his acts of mercy. Remember God will not abandon His own in time of sorrow but He is a present help and He will supply your needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus!
Brenda and entire Graves Family,
You know my heart and prayers are with you and family as you say farewell to “Jr.” May the Lord give you the strength and comfort you need during these trying times. Just wish we could be there. Love you all.