Ulysses Benjamin "Ben" Graves, Sr.

Ulysses B. Graves, Sr., 90, of Navarre, a kind and gentle husband, and a devoted dad, grandpa, great-grandpa and brother, passed away peacefully, in the comfort of his home and in the company of his family, late Wednesday morning, November 16, 2022.  Born in Union County, Tennessee, December 21, 1931, a son to the late James and Minnie (Capps) Graves, Ben served honorably in the US Army during the Korean Conflict and earned the rank of Corporal.  Immediately prior to and then following his time in the service, he worked for the old Nickle Plate Railroad that became Norfolk & Western and finally Norfolk Southern, at the time of his retirement.

A man of quiet, personal faith, Ben had a deep sense of who he was and what was expected of him.  He had a quick mind and a keen intellect; a deep and careful thinker, he was also spontaneous and full of fun.  He never shied from hard work, and had a knack for keeping busy, but his work wasn’t what identified him.  His wife and children were the center of his life, and his mind and heart were always with them.  He always made time for family and created opportunities for the whole gang to get together.  On those happy occasions, he was full of excitement with plenty of jokes, good-natured teasing, and stories.  Ben taught himself to play the guitar and kept the family entertained that way too.  He enjoyed good health and a vigorous lifestyle well into his eighties, caring for the house and yard.  He loved the outdoors; loved to fish; and a walk in the woods was always an adventure and a learning experience – especially when the grandchildren could come along.

Preceded in death by his mother and dad, five brothers, six sisters, and a beloved daughter-in-law, Jan Graves; Ben is survived by his dear wife, Betty (Nicewander) Graves, of the home; their children, Ben Jr., of Stonecreek, Anna (Dave) Betz, of Navarre, and Bonnie (Dan) Studer, also of Stonecreek.  Also surviving are seven grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; his sisters, Beulah, Edna, Mae and Virgie; and scores of treasured nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family.

Cremation has taken place and no formal services are planned.  The family has chosen to mark Ben’s passing privately.  Your memories and condolences are always welcome and may  be added to our on-line guestbook at www.atkinsonfeucht com.

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