Obituary of Robert Gene Graves

Robert Gene “Bobby” Graves passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, July 6, 2020, with his family at his side. Bobby was born October 28, 1929 in Nashville, Tennessee to Leonard Graves and Prince Elbert (Cothran) Graves, the youngest of 5 brothers. He would jokingly tell everyone that his birth was so profound, that the Stock Market crashed the next day. He attended Nashville public schools and graduated as a member of the National Honor Society from Central High School. He was working for the Nashville Milk Producers when he answered the call to duty during the Korean War. Bobby enlisted in the U. S. Army in 1951 and served with the Third Army, 63rd Signal Battalion, HQ Austria. He received his Honorable Discharge with the rank of Sergeant on February 15, 1957. Upon returning to Nashville, he attended David Lipscomb University where he earned a Business Administration Degree. Bobby was employed as a wholesale drug salesman for many years with Berry Wholesale Drugs and McKesson-Robbins. He and Margaret worked many years in the service of the Lord with the Donelson Church of Christ while raising their two daughters. He was the chauffeur to many orchestra and choir rehearsals and the chaperone on many choir and orchestra trips. An expert at the craft of homemade ice cream, he would often remark in the summer heat that it “was the art of mixing” that made the ice cream. Bobby was the consummate Husband, Father, Grandfather, and Father-in-Law to his family, and the best friend anyone could wish to have in their lives. His love and care for people radiated from his gentle wisdom, complete honesty, and faithful support and encouragement. He leaves behind his loving wife of 62 years of marriage, Margaret; daughters Diane Graves Harper (husband Perry) and Susan Graves Boyd (husband David); and four grandchildren, Collin Boyd, Jessica Harper, Evan Boyd, and Rhys Boyd. He was preceded in his passing by his parents; brothers Jack, Harlan, Leon, and William “Billy” Graves. The family would like to thank the compassionate nurses and staff of Comfort Hospice and especially Porsha Powers of Home Care Assistance who has now become part of our family. Bobby will be laid to rest at Woodlawn Cemetery in Nashville with a private graveside service.