Joseph Graves

Joseph Francis Graves Sunrise: July 27, 1943 Sunset: January 31, 2022

Joseph F. Graves of South Baltimore, MD, graduated from Patterson High School in Baltimore in 1962 and went on to fulfill his dream of being a Professional Musician. He soon met The Love of His Life, Ceil. Joe and Ceil were a True Love Story, and she was his Everything. Joe and Ceil were married July 26, 1965 - the day before his 22nd Birthday. Their Song was “So in Love’ by The Tymes, which fit their life’s story. Their love for each other was deep and it showed in throughout their family. Joe and Ceil’s family grew and flourished through their three daughters: each 3 years apart. Joe absolutely loved being a Father and he loved watching his family grow and expand. Joe was a popular, extremely well-liked, and admired Musician, who had been performing since the age of 15. He played numerous instruments and led a few popular bands - most notably: Jay Granger and The Persuasions, and 301 Country. He toured and performed with many local, national, & international stars in different venues, clubs, and arenas all over. He had a make-shift home studio where he recorded many songs - completely by himself - and even had offers for record deals. He travelled all over the States, Canada, Puerto Rico, and even as far away as Greenland; yet he always made time for home and family. After 25+ years of working and touring as a Musician, he went on to become a Fire Inspector with BPFE. Joe enjoyed 33 years of a happy and rewarding career in Fire Protection, where he also made many lasting friendships. He retired in September of 2019, and remained in touch with friends & co-workers; and his (and Ceil’s) good friend and owner, Pam. To Our Beloved Father… Dear Dad, You were such a Gift to us all, and it’s so hard to believe that you are not here with us - God has called you home. Ever since Mom, the Love of Your Life, was called into Eternal Rest, your heart became weak from the hole left in it… We know how much you missed Mom, as we did, but our hearts were always aching for you. Dad, you were and will always be our Hero, the most Amazing Man in our lives. We love you so very much; there will never be anyone like you in this world. We will forever treasure the great memories you created for and with us. From simple family times full of love, laughter, life-lessons, and great music (and there was always a song for everything), to teaching us about hard work, saving money, being responsible and even when driving to “watch out for the other guy.” Dad, you were the shining example of what a good man is. You were so kind, generous hard-work, funny, giving, a great teacher, and you always put caring for your family - and others - before yourself. You rarely rested. You worked nights, yet still made time for Mom and us kids. You worked sometimes 6 nights a week as a full-time Musician, yet always put your family first. You were our first favorite Rock Star – and you Still are. We had such a great childhood, thanks to you and Mom. Joe leaves to cherish his memory and legacy: his Daughter Michelle & husband Rick, Daughter Susan (& late husband Shawn), (step) Daughter Teresa & husband Tony, (step) Son Stan Simmons & wife Donna, Sister Mary Catlett, Brother Lewis “Butch” Graves, Jr & wife Carole, Brother Ronald Graves, and Sister Dolly Clingerman, 4 Grandchildren Larry, Amanda, Joseph, Amber, 3 (step) Grandchildren Tiffany Renee, Tiffany Lynn, Anthony “Tony” Jr, 9 Great-Grandchildren, 8 (step) GreatGrandchildren. Joe also leaves many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends that are like family. Joe was preceded in death by his Beloved Wife Goldia Cecelia “Ceil” Graves, his Parents Lewis S. Graves, Sr. (Reading, PA) and Congeneva Jennie Perrica (Sicily, and Messina, Italy), his Daughter Kimberley Graves-Bury, (step) Daughter Cindy Barnett & husband Tebby, Son-In-Law Shawn McCullough, and GreatGranddaughter Emmaleigh. Dad, we will love, honor, and miss you forever. Your Legacy will forever live on. Thank You Lord, for our amazing father. Bible Verses: Psalm 23: 1 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He leadeth me beside the still waters. 3 He restoreth my soul: He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. 4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. 5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: Thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. 6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: And I will dwell in the house o f the LORD for ever. Psalm 34: 17 The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. 18 The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. 2 Corinthians 5: 8 We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord. [The Holy Bible]

Relatives and friends are invited to call at the family owned and operated MCCULLY-POLYNIAK FUNERAL HOME, P.A. 3204 Mountain Road PASADENA on Sunday, February 6, 2022, 3 to 5 and 7 to 9 pm. Where funeral services will be held on Monday at 11:30 am. Interment Glen haven memorial Park Cemetery.