Jo was born an only child on January 25, 1928 in Crystal Springs, MS to Walter Delos and Ruth Chapman Williamson. She grew up active in her church and later enrolled in Draughn’s Business College in Jackson, MS. Needing a ride to Jackson, she met a nice young man working in Jackson at Lane Moak Pontiac that was eager to include her in a carpool. That man, Earl “Bud” Graves, later became her husband of 65 years.
Jo was a beloved mother of five children, grandmother to 11, and great-grandmother to 15. She raised her family and grandchildren all while working at the S&H Green Stamp Store and the Children’s Clinic where she became a friend to all. She served as room mother, troop leader, and Sunday School teacher through the years and will always be remembered for her humor and wit.
Most of all Jo will be remembered as an amazing Godly wife, mother and constant caregiver to her family. She lived her faith and made sure her family knew that Jesus loved them all unconditionally. Jo loved her church family at Raymond Road Baptist Church and the senior citizens group.
Jo was preceded in death by her parents, husband (Earl Graves), and grandson (Christopher Cottrell). She is survived by her son, Randy Earl Graves, and daughters, Susan Graves Bumgarner, Patrice Graves Queen, Jewel Graves Moore, and Lorrie Graves Driver; 10 grandchildren, Kasi Graves MacFarland, Will Joseph Etheridge, Nicholas Earl Graves, Lana Queen Wakefield, Jaimee Jo Bumgarner, Forrest Earl Moore, Kendall Anthony Queen, Meredith lane Moore, Morgan Driver Hartley, and James Trent Driver; and 15 great-grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations in Jo’s memory be made to the Senior Adult Ministry at Raymond Road Baptist Church. The family wishes to extend their sincere thanks to the caregivers at Riggs Manor – Smith House and Baptist Hospice.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18