On October 20, 1921 James Henry Graves was born in Mineral Springs, AR to Sam and Nola Belcher Graves. The family later moved to Nashville, AR where they owned a far.. His parents and known siblings, George, Jessie, Jeffery, Minnie Bell, Willie Dell and Leo Dell Graves all preceded them in death.

He attended school in Tollette, AR. He was an avid baseball player in school. James loved his family, he was especially close to his father and brother, Jessie. He served our country as a cook in the United States Army.

In 1944, James and his then wife, Lula Pearl Graves, relocated to Hot Springs, AR, and raised their 4 children: Clara, James (Dick), Patricia Ann, and Shelia Kay. Our family enjoyed going on picnics, going to the lake, watching dad play baseball with other families and friends. He joined Cottrell Chapel Christian Methodist Episcopal Church of Hot Springs and was an active member.

Providing for his family, he worked at Hot Springs Fixure Company on Ouachita Avenue where he repaired and delivered appliances. His dream was realized when he began building from the ground up, a local restaurant on Mound Street. He named it, "James Dairy Bar". He took pride in preparing the best steaks and seafood in town.

He was noted for his infectious smile and friendliness because he loved people. In addition to being a father and a businessman, he received yet another namesake, :"Paw-Paw". With his own eyes he say his legacy grow from grandfather to great great grandfather. Soon after retiring he relocated back to his childhood property in Nashville, AR where he built a new home for his two sisters, Willie Dell and Leo. He was their main caretaker. He enjoyed spending time with his sisters singing the old songs of Zion. Daddy loved his sweets. There was never a dessert he didn't like. In fact, he loved all meals of the day.

Under the ministry of his brother, Rev. Jessie Graves, he received Christ as Lord and Savior. When his brother jJessie passed away he united with Friendship Church of God where Rev. Juanita Jackson was his pastor. He was a faithful church member. James helped out wherever he could because he loved the Lord and his church.
Due to health issues he moved back to Hot Sprrings. He joined Visitors Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church and attended church until his health began to fail. Rev. Gregory C. Nettles served as his current pastor.

On Wednesday, June 14, 2017 at 95 years of age, James Henry passed from this life to eternal life with God. He was the last surviving sibling of 12 children.

He was also predeceased by his grandson, James Anthony Graves and a son-in-law, Stephen Bailey.

He will forever be in the hearts and memories of his son, James "Dick" Graves of Chicago, IL; 3 daughters and a son-in-law, Patricia Bailey of Douglasville, GA, Shelia Bishop of Atlanta, GA and Clara (Garland) Puckett of Hot Springs; Lula Pearl Graves, mother of his children; grandchildren, Yvette (Donald) Cravins, Mishelle (William) Smart, James, Jordan and Jacqueline Graves, Cassandra Houston, Monique Duvall, Michael (Tammara) Duvall, Sheletha Byers, Roy (Sheron) Williams and Christian Bishop; great grandchildren, great great grandchildren and nieces, nephews and friends.

Funeral service will be 11:00 AM Wednesday, June 21, 2017 at Historic Visitors Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church with Rev. Juanita Jackson delivering the eulogy. Burial will follow in Crestview Cemetery. Visitation will be Tuesday, June 20, 2017 from 5:00 – 7:00 PM at the funeral home.

In Lieu of flowers please make donations to Visitors Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church.

Guest registry is at http://www.carriganmemorial.com

Arrangements are entrusted to Carrigan Memorial Funeral Services