Carol Jo Ann Graves

Carol Jo Ann Graves
June 9, 1937 - October 14, 2021

Jo Ann Graves of Albuquerque, New Mexico, went to her heavenly home on Thursday, October 14 2021. She was preceded in death in 2015, by her husband of 59 years, O.B. Graves. She is survived by sons Dean Graves and wife Blake of Albuquerque, NM, David Graves and wife, Leslie of Omaha, NE, and John Graves and wife, Tina of Monument, CO; daughters Kim Graves of Fort Worth, TX, Linda Love and husband Chris of Abilene, TX, and brother Tim Dannels of Colorado Springs, CO; 10 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

Jo Ann was born in Denver, CO to Vera and Leon Hawks. She married a dashing young soldier, who wouldn't leave her alone at her work until she agreed to go out with him, then whisked her off her feet and married her on December 22, 1955. Together they raised five amazing children. They spent many a holiday camping and fishing with the kids who still recall these adventures fondly. O.B. and Jo Ann also enjoyed traveling on their Honda Goldwing motorcycle. Never ones to shy away from hard work, together they built their beloved house in the mountains of Tijeras, NM where they relished their retirement.

Jo Ann worked for Leedshill Herkenhoff for several years prior to their retirement and volunteered in the office at Dennis Chavez Elementary School.

Jo Ann's hobbies included knitting, sewing, painting, ceramics, and beading jewelry. She was a talented pianist and organist who loved to play hymns. She attended Bella Vista Baptist Church for many years and was very active in the Young At Heart ministry. She always had a smile on her face and enjoyed the challenge of Bridge and the ladies with whom she played. We will affectionately remember her flair for unusual earrings, how she always made the holidays so special, and her love for her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

We mourn because she is no longer with us, but we rejoice because she is in perfect health and reunited with those loved ones who have gone before her in the presence of her Savior, Jesus Christ.

Services will be held at Bella Vista Baptist Church on Thursday, November 18, 2021, 10:00 a.m. Interment to follow at Santa Fe National Cemetery at 1:30 p.m.

Jo Ann had a heart for missions, so in lieu of flowers please consider donating to Bella Vista Baptist Church's Missionary department. Their address is 2800 Louisiana Blvd, Albuquerque, NM, 87110.