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BORN
1940
DIED
2020
Franklin Graves Obituary
Plant City, FL—Franklin LeeRoy Graves passed away on Friday, June 5, 2020 at his home in Plant City, Florida, after a courageous battle with multiple myeloma. He was surrounded by his family on that day. Frank was born July 13, 1940 to Mae and William Graves at their home in Springfield Illinois, he was one of 9 children.
He married the love of his life, Dora Lee Hartman on September 29, 1958. They were blessed with three children: Frank LeeRoy Graves Jr. (Nancy Graves), James Bradley Graves, (Lisa Graves), Melissa Jo Henrikson (Scott Henrikson). His pride and joy of seven Grandchildren, Amanda Jane Hale, (Kyle Sciulli), Amy Jewel Sobzak, (Jason Sobzak), Danielle Louise Graves and Leanne Marie Graves, Marcus Bradley Matthys and Jessica Melissa Trader, (Kevin Trader), Shayna Ashley Henrikson (Shae Gates). He will be missed greatly by five great grandchildren, Calleigh Jane Hale, Ava Leigh and Ana Rose Sobzak, Emma jane and Oliver Marcus Trader.
Frank enjoyed spending time with his family, he loved hunting, camping, cruising, and singing Karaoke.
His career adventures include, working as a logger, trucking, general construction, home builder, disaster cleanup, and aluminum siding applicator. He had amazing pride in his marriage. Frank and Dora celebrated their 61st anniversary just this past September. He built 5 houses for his kids and an estimated 30 in his career. Frank was a good father who lead by example. He taught us all to be honest, to work hard at what ever we were doing, and to be strong.
His celebration of life will be Saturday, July 18th at his daughter Melissa's home in Springfield, Illinois.
This is a fitting location as it's the last house he ever built. Food and beverages will be provided and please bring a memory or story of Frank to share.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Franklin Graves
Mary Hardt
June 6, 2024
I now live 2 doors from where Frank and Dora lived in Zephyrhills. Not a day goes by that I don´t miss them. Dora moved to be close to her children. I miss them both so much.
Michelle Hughes
June 6, 2023
Frank was the best friend I ever had in my life you help me over and over again and put me to work he was awesome
Mary Hardt
June 6, 2023
If you were one of Franks friends you were truly blessed. He held his friends close to his heart. He was the best friend I have ever had. He will be remembered always.
Jean Smith
June 15, 2020
Nancy, so sorry for your loss. He sounds like a wonderful human being that I wish I had gotten to meet.
Andrea Parker
June 15, 2020
Uncle Frank brought so much joy to the world and his presence automatically made you feel comfortable. While my Dad was working one day I got to spend the whole day alone with Uncle Frank. One of my favorite memories, we spent the time singing Karaoke and laughing. The day ended with Aunt Dora making us venison spaghetti. Uncle Frank will be greatly missed.
Mary
June 14, 2020
He was my best friend, he gave me a job when I needed it. He was my repair go to when something broke and he got me singing at karaoke. He and Dora are wonderful people, they talk about how much their family means to them all the time. My heart aches for your loss.
Clyde Yocum
June 14, 2020
I always called him Uncle Frank
Rest in peace
Michelle Hughes
June 14, 2020
Greatest Man ive ever known as well as his family!!!
Chris Mehelic
June 13, 2020
My condolences to you and the family.
Boo Siebert Miller
June 13, 2020
So sorry for your loss. Hugs and prayers to you all.
Boo Siebert Miller
Gene and Joan Pankey
June 13, 2020
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
C.K. Shereda
June 13, 2020
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
I am so glad that I had the privilege of knowing such a wonderful man.
Dave and Mary Leckrone
June 13, 2020
Beautiful tribute. Sending many hugs and prayers.
ROBERT & PATRICIA RICHARDS
June 13, 2020
Very special person blessed with a beautiful voice.
ROBERT & PATRICIA RICHARDS
June 13, 2020
Special person, beautiful voice!
ROBERT & PATRICIA RICHARDS
June 13, 2020
Bob and I met Frank through karaoke. It was also our privilege to provide music for Frank and Dora at their 60th wedding anniversary at which time we also got to meet many of this wonderful family's members. Sing with the angels our friend! You will be greatly missed. Bob & Pat Richards
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