Obituary

Nathaniel Graves

"To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted."

Ecclesiastes 3:1-2

Nathaniel Graves was born on May 27, 1933, to the union of the late Banks Charles Graves, Jr. and the late Evelyn Brown Graves in Darrow, Louisiana.

Nathaniel Graves departed this earthly life on Wednesday, December 27th at his home in Darrow. Surrounded by a Band of Angels, Nathaniel quietly accepted God's grace and embraced eternal rest.

Nathaniel, at an early age, dedicated his life to Christ and was baptized at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Darrow where he remained a faithful member his entire life. He served as a dedicated and fully committed Usher, loving his church, and supporting it in every way possible. He proudly Ushered under the leadership of Reverend Victor Pedescleaux, a longtime friend. Throughout the years, Nathaniel remained steadfast in his devotion to Christ which was evident by the love he had for all and his commitment to worshiping at various churches as he was stationed globally.

Nathaniel was a graduate of Lowery High School in Donaldsonville, Louisiana.  While in high school, Nat was a stellar athlete.

Nathaniel met Rosa (Rose) Mae Camp in New York. They married in February of 1954. Graves (as she affectionately called him) and Rose were united in holy matrimony for twenty-five years until her death in August of 1979. To this union, the pride and joy of his life were two daughters, Marsha and Denise.

Nathaniel found love again and married Josie Mae Arnold in February of 1984. They were happily married for thirty-nine years. To this union, he was blessed with a stepdaughter, Lesa Carr Thompson, and a granddaughter, Porcha C. Thompson.

Nathaniel enlisted in the United States Army in May of 1953. Sergeant Graves had a notably successful military career. Nathaniel served with stateside assignments while stationed in Texas, Oklahoma, Florida, New York, and California. His overseas assignments included Okinawa, Germany, and Korea. Throughout his years of service, Nathaniel was awarded multiple medals, commendations, and citations. Sergeant Graves was acknowledged for professionalism displayed, for demonstrating outstanding leadership, ability, ingenuity, military bearing, appearance, and knowledge. Sergeant Nathaniel Graves was the recipient of the Commanding General's Best Quarters award which is given in recognition for the state of care and upkeep of the home lawn. After serving his country honorably, Nathaniel retired from the United States Army at Fort Bliss, Texas in May of 1977. He was a twenty-four-year veteran.

Nathaniel Graves continued to serve others upon his military retirement. He returned home to Darrow and began work with the Ascension Parish Police Jury (Ascension Parish Public Works). Following twelve years of loyal employment, Nathaniel retired as a supervisor. After retiring, he devoted his time and attention to his family, his yard work, traveling and caring for his aquarium.

Nathaniel was a diligent and hard worker and he made sure that his family was well taken care of. For the women in his life, he built anything requested, fixed items with great ingenuity, and had their backs in every way possible.

Nathaniel also relished his love of sports in retirement. He immediately began to support the Southern University football program by becoming a season ticket holder until his passing. Additionally, he was a LHSAA approved basketball referee. He was also a committed New Orleans Saints fan and Dallas Cowboys fan. He frequently attended and/or watched games and matches in all sports while surrounded by family and donning a big smile.

Nathaniel Graves was preceded in death by his parents, Banks Graves, Jr. and Evelyn Graves; brother, Leo Graves, Sr.; wife, Rosa Mae Camp Graves; wife, Josie Mae Arnold Graves; daughter, Marsha Renee Graves Taylor; paternal grandparents, Banks, Sr. and Tina Haynes Graves; and maternal grandparents, John and Alice Brown.

Nathaniel Graves leaves a legacy of love and cherished memories for his youngest daughter A. Denise Graves (Gonzales, Louisiana); stepdaughter Lesa Carr Thompson (Sorrento, Louisiana); granddaughter, Porcha C. Thompson (Gonzales, Louisiana); nephew, Leo J. Graves, Jr. (Gonzales, Louisiana); nephew, Troy Graves, Sr. (Sonja) (Darrow, Louisiana); niece, Amy Lee (Darrow, Louisiana); special family friend, Ann Pedescleaux, as well as a host of cousins, other relatives and friends.

Nathaniel Graves lived a long and good life. If love could have kept him here, he would still be with us. He was cherished and respected by everyone he met. Nathaniel was a dear friend to so many, and he was an inspiration to all.

His Lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter into the joy of the Lord.

Matthew 25:21