Larry Graves Obituary - Death Notice and Service Information

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Larry Dean Graves, who left this world on Friday, October 3, 2025, at the age of 79. Born and raised in New Hope, Alabama, Larry was a proud graduate of New Hope School, where he played football and formed lifelong friendships. He remained deeply connected to his hometown throughout his life.In 1984, Larry co-founded Southland Precision in a small building in Gurley, Alabama, alongside two partners and one employee. Through dedication, vision, and grit, he served as the company's President and driving force for over four decades-working passionately right up until the day of his passing. Under his leadership, Southland Precision thrived and was repeatedly recognized by major clients for its excellence and innovation. Larry's legacy in the business world is one of integrity, knowledge, and resilience.Outside of work, Larry was a man of many joys. He loved traveling-visiting Hawaii, Europe, Russia, Australia, New Zealand, Alaska, and countless destinations across the U.S. In later years, he especially enjoyed long drives down old country backroads. He rarely turned down a chance to try a new restaurant, play a hand of poker with his longtime buddies, or cheer on his beloved Alabama Crimson Tide-Roll Tide!Larry's greatest pride was his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by many. He was preceded in death by his father, Al Henry Graves; mother, Eva Lorene Manley; grandmother, Mattie Stapler Manley; brother, Edgar Graves; son, Darren Graves; and nephew, Shawn Woodliff. He is survived by his loving wife of 31 years, Ann Hill Graves; his sons, Dean Graves (Michelle) and BJ Guthrie; grandchildren, Ashlyn Graves (Emily) and Tyler Dean Graves; and great-granddaughter, Adalyn Graves. He is also survived by his siblings, Roger Graves (Sara) and Sherry Graves Clayton (DeWayne); nephews, Dr. Matthew Clayton (Meaghann), Dr. Christopher Clayton (Rachel), and Brian Graves; niece, Dr. Lori Foster (Bryan); great-nephews, Ben Clayton, Andrew Clayton, Eli Clayton, Everett Clayton, William Foster, and Austyn Woodliff; and great-nieces, Anna Claire Clayton, Emery Clayton, Edith Clayton, Maddie Graves, and Addison Foster.A celebration of Larry's life will be held on Tuesday, October 7th at New Hope Funeral Home. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m. and continue until 2:00 p.m., followed by a service officiated by DeWayne Clayton. Burial will take place at Whitaker Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Dr. Christopher Clayton, Dr. Matthew Clayton, DeWayne Clayton, Jeff Norman, Roger Dobbins, and Chris Keel. Brian Graves will serve as an honorary pallbearer.Larry's humor, hard work, and love for his family leave an enduring impact. Whether in his office, on a road trip, or around the dinner table, Larry lived with purpose and heart. He will be forever missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Larry Dean Graves

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