Russell Avery Graves Obituary
With solemn hearts, we announce the passing of Russell Avery Graves of Athens, Georgia, whose presence will be deeply missed, having departed on February 1, 2025 at the age of 93. Family and friends are welcome to leave their condolences on this memorial page and share them with the family.
He was predeceased by: his parents, Avery Graves and Myrtle Graves (Dickens); his former wife Catherine Graves (Branham); his wife Ann Graves (Terry Cook); his brother Marvin Graves; and his siblings-in-law, Malcomb Branham, Jimmy Terry, Tom Ramage, Sandra Graves, Wilma Hughes, Linda Terry, Jane Ramage and Eydie Branham.
He is survived by: his children, John Cook (Mary Ellen) of Austin, TX, Bill Cook (Maura) of Chatham, MA, Jerry Cook (Laurie) of Winston Salem, NC, David Graves (Cathy) of Watkinsville, GA, Sherri Graves (Pete Cafferata) of Sacramento, CA and Pam Wessel (Dave) of Newburgh, IN; his grandchildren, Julia (Don), Anna Laura (Mike), Whitney, Mitchell (Jasmine), Christina, Lydia, Amelia, Maria and Catherine; his great grandchildren, Whit and Sutton; and his siblings, George Graves, Wynelle Middlebrooks (Charlie) and Linda Graves (Phil Roberts). He is also survived by many nephews, nieces, grand-nephews, and grand-nieces.
A memorial service was held on Saturday, February 8th 2025 at 11:00 AM at the First Baptist Church of Athens (355 Pulaski St, Athens, GA 30601). Visitation was held on Saturday, February 8th 2025 at 12:00 PM at the same location.
Memorial contributions can be made to Samaritan's Purse (International Relief organization) at PO Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607; phone 828-262-1980; website samaritanspurse.org.
