Richard Graves

Richard Lee Graves, 76, of Mabelvale, Arkansas passed away February 12, 2022.  Richard was born June 3, 1945 to the late Raymond Graves and Georgia (Platt) Graves Morrison.

Richard was of the Baptist faith. He enjoyed fishing and restoring and collecting antique cars.   He had many “projects” he was always hoping he would “get around to”. Richard loved looking at antique cars and listening to Elvis. He had no limitations despite his severe back issues and never complained. Richard was strong and determined to live life, despite having chronic crippling pain. Family was extremely important to him.  He loved his sons and raised them to be strong men.  Richard married his wife, Martha at a young age and they each helped raise one another and became best friends through their journey. Many people say that Richard gave the best hugs ever and was soft and gentle despite being a big man.

Richard was preceded in death by his mother, Georgia (Platt) Morrison; father, Raymond Graves who passed away when Richard was just a young boy; siblings: Bill Graves, Bob Graves, Frank Morrison, and Jim Morrison; and stepfather, George Morrison.

Richard is survived by his wife of 58 years, Martha; two sons, Jeffery Graves and Daniel Graves; grandchildren: Jacob Lee Graves and wife, Tiffany, Jessie Lucille Alvey, Tyler Cannon “Homer” Graves and fiancé, Lauren; seven great-grandchildren: Gavin, Garrett, Connor, Cannon, Cammie Jo, Dakota, and Gunnar; half-brother, Johney Morrison; dear friends: Charlie Phillips, Johnny Strickland, Bill Wilkins, and Gene Easter; and many family members and friends who love Richard and will miss him always.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, February 15, from 5:00 – 7:00 P.M., at Smith-Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market Street, Benton, Arkansas. Funeral Service is Wednesday, February 16, at 11:00 A.M. at Vimy Ridge Immanuel Baptist Church with a burial to follow at McPherson Cemetery on Sardis Road.

Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com .