Leona Seraphine Clair Joseph Graves was born Wednesday, December 22, 1937 to Vernell Joseph, Sr. and Clair LeBlanc Joseph. On Saturday, January 16, 2021, at the age of 83, Seraphine "Phene" quietly transitioned from her earthly home. Surrounded by Angels, she laid her head to rest, clung to her abiding faith and accepted God's grace. Seraphine's season here on earth was over, and another day, another life beckoned!

Leona Seraphine Clair Joseph Graves was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. Leona was affectionately known Phene, Lovie, Mama,Maw Maw, Nanny, Aunt Phene and Sis. She began and completed her education through the St. Catherine of Sienna Catholic Church Schools in Donaldsonville. Phene's compassion for others, her selfless spirit, and her willingness to give freely of herself earned her the love and respect of many. For numerous years, she faithfully served her community as a member of Darrow Citizens United, and a choir member at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church and St. Anne Catholic Church in Sorrento. Phene enjoyed life and expressed a passion for helping others through her acts of kindness and service. Seraphine assisted multiple families in the Darrow community by providing loving childcare to many children.

On May 28, 1960, Seraphine married the "love of her life", Leo John Graves, Sr. They were soul mates who were blessed to live life as loving companions and best friends for fifty-five years. To this affectionate and lasting union were born two loving and devoted sons, Leo John, Jr., and Troy Michael, Sr. Their union was further blessed in 1990 with the addition of an adoring adopted daughter, Amy Michelle Joseph Lee. Phene possessed an outgoing and vibrant personality which led and illuminated those around her.

Seraphine leaves a legacy of love and memories that will forever be cherished by two sons and one daughter-in-law, Leo John, Jr., and Troy Michael (Sonja) Graves; one adopted daughter, Amy Michelle Joseph Lee; one brother in-law and sister-in-law, Nathaniel (Josie) Graves; four grandchildren, Autumn Storm Lee, Troy Michael Graves, Jr., Kolby Jo'el Lee, and Kennedy Nicole Lee; and special family friends, Ann Pedescleaux and Audrey Price. Additionally, survived by siblings: Theresa Patricia Hamilton, John Kenneth Joseph, Darrell Joseph, Martin Bryan Joseph, and Erick Joseph. Along with numerous nieces and nephews, other relatives, and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Leo Graves, Sr., her parents, siblings Vernell Joseph, Jr., Rita Cecile Joseph Cadres, and Marjorie Joseph Mitchell.

Wednesday, January 20, a walk-thru visitation will be held 5:00p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Lawson-Rollins Purple Shield Funeral Home in Gonzales.

Thursday, January 21, a service to be held at 10:00 at St. Anthony Catholic Church, 37311 Highway 22, Darrow. Church capacity limited due to CDC guidelines.

Interment will be at Ebenezer Baptist Church Cemetery in Darrow.  No repast to be held.