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Richard Graves Obituary

Richard Austin Graves

August 1932 - April 19, 2014

Chapel Hill

Richard Austin Graves, 81, of Chapel Hill, NC died Saturday, April 19, 2014.

Born in Chester, VA he graduated from Yale University and served 22 years in the US Air Force as a command pilot and flight instructor who attained the rank of Major. During his career, he served 4 tours in SEA flying both C-47 special ops and KC-135 air refueling aircraft, for which he earned numerous decorations.

In addition to flying, he served as Wing Executive Officer at bases in both NY and NC. He also earned a Masters degree in Personnel Management from Central Michigan University.

He retired to Chapel Hill in 1976 with his family, to whom more than anything else he was a great husband and father. He will be sorely missed.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Mary Louise Graves; daughter, Virginia Marion; son, Dana Graves; granddaughter, Mary Grace Graves; brothers, Bill, Donald and John Graves.

A memorial service will be held at the Sheraton in Chapel Hill, NC on Tuesday April 29th at 1:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Hock Family Pavilion (inpatient hospice facility)

http://dhch.duhs.duke.edu/make-donation

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The News & Observer from Apr. 24 to Apr. 27, 2014.

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Peter Spruyt

April 27, 2014

Very sorry to hear about the passing of your father, Ginny. You are in my thoughts. Sending love.

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