Susan Ward Graves

Susan Ward Graves, 71, of Franklin, TN, passed away on April 11th, 2024 from complications due to advanced MS. She was born in 1952 in Pittsburgh to James and Grayce Ward, who instilled in her a lifelong love for the Pittsburgh Steelers. As a teenager, her family relocated to Michigan, and later settled in Nashville. She attended DuPont High School before pursuing a degree in Art History at UT Knoxville.

Susan met her husband Ken at Hermitage Presbyterian Church. They fell in love and were married in 1976. Susan embraced her role as a mother, welcoming her daughter Lacey in February 1979 and her son Gavin in July 1983. She dedicated herself to raising her children with care, instilling in them values of empathy and compassion. Her commitment to their education was present from their earliest schooling until they each graduated college.

Throughout her life, Susan pursued her passion for art with unwavering dedication. She explored various media, including oils, pastels, watercolor, beaded jewelry, and clay sculpture. Her artwork hung in numerous galleries, fairs, and establishments across Nashville. She carved out studios in each home she lived in, where she poured her creativity into her craft. She especially enjoyed painting Tennessee landscapes and historic homes.

Susan's green thumb was evident in her love for gardening. She nurtured all kinds of flowers and plants, demonstrating expertise in horticulture that continues to flourish even in her absence. Her passion for nature extended to her involvement in the Oak Hill Garden Club.

In 1993, Susan became a member of the Baha’i faith, finding solace and purpose in its teachings of oneness, equality, and unity. She served on the Local Spiritual Assembly of Williamson County and in 2003 embarked on a pilgrimage to the Baha’i Holy Land with her daughter Lacey.

As empty-nesters, Susan and Ken went on many adventures together, frequenting the deserts of the western US, the mountains of East Tennessee and countless camping trips in their RV. Over the course of their marriage they had 7 boats, and she especially loved spending a Saturday afternoon floating on Center Hill Lake. They also had 5 RV’s, and a number of motorcycles and had many adventures together.

One of Susan’s favorite things to do was visit art galleries. She often traveled to Chicago to visit Lacey and the Art Institute of Chicago. She referred to their vast impressionist collection as her “old friends” and never tired of roaming each gallery. She and Ken were also longtime members of the Frist Art Museum in Nashville.

As a grandmother of 5, Susan found immense joy and fulfillment. She cherished each moment her grandchildren, embracing her role of "Grammy.” Her warmth, humor, and unwavering love will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Memorial services will be held at Woodlawn-Roesch-Patton Funeral Home & Memorial Park, 660 Thompson Lane, Nashville, TN 37204. Monday, April 15 to celebrate Susan's remarkable life and legacy. Visitation is at 1:00pm, memorial program at 2:00pm followed by graveside service. Dress is casual.