James "Jim" Edward Graves, SR.'s Obituary
James Edward Graves Sr., most often known as Jim Graves, recently of Richardson, Tx, passed away on Friday, April 6, 2018. Funeral services are planned for Saturday, April 14, 2018 at Restland Funeral Home at 13005 Greenville Ave., Dallas, TX.Jim is survived by his wife, Norma Graves, children Carol Doty and Jim Graves Jr., Jim Jr.’s wife, Mary Graves, four grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.James Edward Graves was born to Claude (Pete) Graves and Ethel Gray Graves on March 8, 1925. His siblings were Claude Jr. and Reba. He is preceded in death by both parents and siblings.Jim attended school in Plano and McKinney. His family owned a small dairy farm where he milked the cows along with his father twice a day and after pasteurizing the milk delivered it to restaurants and groceries-he was 13 years old.Jim joined the Marines when he was 16 years old and served from 1942-1946 when he was Honorably discharged. He drove amphibious trucks from the troop ships to the shores of South Pacific-Western Samoa and Nanumea. Jim enlisted right after Pearl Harbor.He went on to work for Borden’s Dairy following the service. Ultimately he served Borden’s as a General Manager in various locations ending his career with them after 40 years.Jim and Norma recommitted their lives to Christ and to God’s work after their two children were born. Then again, in 1966 when they were transferred to Phoenix, Arizona and became involved in North Phoenix Baptist Church. There Jim served on the Deacon body and taught Bible study to single young men for nearly 7 years. At other locations and churches Jim has continued to serve on Deacon bodies and as a Bible Study teacher.Jim enjoyed outdoor activities very much. He was an avid hunter and fisherman. He introduced his children to the love of the outdoors with camping adventures.Jim also loved to golf and had many great times with friends and family on the courses.After retirement Jim and Norma returned to the Dallas area and became members of Prestonwood Baptist Church. They were blessed to participate in the “Before You Say ‘I Do’” program. They met many wonderful young couples and spoke to them of the lifelong commitment in marriage. It was a special time for them.Jim and Norma have been married for 66 years, he has been faithful and loving to the last day of his life. She was at his side during his last days.Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Restland Funeral Home and Cemetery, 13005 Greenville Avenue, at Restland Road, Dallas, Texas 75243.
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