Brenda Joyce Graves

Brenda Joyce Graves was born in Waco, TX on July 26, 1952 to the parentage of Lee Ernest Gipson, Sr. and Billie Sue Gipson. Brenda was raised in Dallas, TX and accepted Christ at an early age. She received her formal education from the Dallas Independent School District and was a graduate of Lincoln High School. Brenda was employed with the Dallas Independent School District, until she retired in January 2011.

On November 8, 1985, Brenda was joined in holy matrimony to James A. Graves, Jr. The two were united until her departure.

Brenda’s family and friends meant everything to her. She worked tirelessly to perfect the relationships she’d built over the years, and made sure all of her loved ones were taken care of to the best of her ability. Brenda was an active participant in the art of giving and made generosity her priority. Cooking was Brenda’s favorite pastime and for years the Graves’ residence was the gathering place where family, church members and friends alike could join together for fellowship.

Brenda was preceded in death by both parents, nephew Derrick Gipson and brother-in-law Weldon “Dino” Shears.

Brenda leaves to carry on her legacy, her husband, James A. Graves, Jr., daughter Tarsha Rolfe (Dion), two granddaughters Taryon Rolfe and Tarnejah Rolfe, her siblings Lee Ernest Gipson, Jr. (Martha), Josie Shears, Richard Gipson and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

A visitation for Brenda will be held Friday, December 20, 2024 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Laurel Land Funeral Home, 6300 South R.L., Dallas, TX 75232. A celebration of life will occur Saturday, December 21, 2024 from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, 6300 South R.L., Dallas, TX 75232. A committal service will occur Monday, December 23, 2024 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 6300 South R.L., Dallas, TX 75232.