William “Bill” Ethridge Graves
Bill Graves of Potosi, Missouri was born on September 16, 1925 in Potosi, Missouri a son of the late, Emma Mae (Benson) Dean and Clyde Graves. Bill departed this life on June 21, 2008 at his residence having reached the age of eighty-two years, nine months and five days.
Bill was united in marriage to Gerry Wright on July 28, 1946 in Potosi, Missouri.
Bill is survived by his loving wife, Gerry Graves of Potosi, Missouri; two daughters, Karen Sue Fenstermaker of Potosi, Missouri, Kathryn Ann Boyer of Festus, Missouri; three sisters-in-law, Pat Graves of Potosi, Missouri, Peggy Lewis of Charlestown, Maryland, Joan Chatham of Sebastian, Florida; one brother-in-law, Fred Wright and wife, Mae of Northeast, Maryland; five grandchildren, Sue Ann, R.J., Stacie, Amy and Bethanie; seven great grandchildren, Sky, Evan, Olivia, Joseph, Miranda, Michelle and Cierra; also surviving are nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Bill served in the United States Navy enlisting on December 14, 1943 and received an honorable discharge on May 3, 1946.
Bill was a member of the Washington County V.F.W. # 6996 and was co-owner of the lumber store in Potosi for twenty-five years. He enjoyed visiting the Potosi Senior Center, watching ballgames and telling stories. Bill loved spending time with his family and friends, especially his grandchildren.
Visitation was held Monday, June 23, 2008 from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM and Tuesday, June 24, 2008 from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the Moore Funeral Home, Potosi, Missouri.
A Funeral Service was held Tuesday, June 24, 2008 at 11:00 AM at the Moore Memorial Chapel, Potosi, Missouri with Elder Leonard Compton officiating. Honoring Bill by serving as pallbearers were: Jeff Graves, Eddie Graves, Murlin Graves, R.J. Boyer, Sky Alvino, Mike Chazelle and honorary pallbearers: Sue Ann Moore, Amy Chazelle, Stacie Boyer and Bethanie Boyer.
Final Prayers and Burial took place in the Sunset Hill Cemetery, Potosi, Missouri. Where Bill received full military honors consisting of a firing party, taps, flag folding and presentation.
Services were Entrusted to the Care and Direction of the Moore Funeral Homes, 105 Clark Street, Potosi, Missouri.
