Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
BORN
1959
DIED
2024
Leland Graves Obituary
June 9, 1959 - December 12, 2024
Prairie Village, Kansas - Leland Graves III, MD died on December 12th, 2024 at KU Medical Center after a brief illness.
He was born on June 9th, 1959 to Leland Graves, Jr. and Marion Graves in St. Louis, Missouri.
Following his graduation from Francis Howell High School in St. Charles, MO, he attended UMKC School of Medicine in Kansas City, MO, graduating in 1983. He then completed an internal medicine residency, followed by a fellowship in endocrinology at the University of Kansas Medical Center.
At the time of his death, he was a Professor of Medicine at the University of Kansas Medical Center, where he was Chief of Staff and also served on the Board of Directors for the University of Kansas Health System. Additionally, he was Director of the Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Clinical Pharmacology within the Department of Internal Medicine. For 18 years he served as the director of the Endocrinology Fellowship Program, and was a sought-after mentor to many physicians. He was a master clinician who loved patient care, teaching, and research. He was blessed with wonderful friendships with many colleagues at KU Med.
Leland was a loving and adored husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He met his wife, Beverly, at UMKC School of Medicine where they were classmates. They were married in 1981. They were blessed with 3 children, and 5 grandchildren.
In his free time, he enjoyed music: he was a gifted pianist and played guitar and other instruments, acquiring many dear friends in this endeavor. He was a man of faith, and for many years he led musical worship at St Anne's Episcopal Church in Lee's Summit, MO. He treasured time spent with family, and adored his 5 grandchildren to whom he was "Papa." He loved to travel. He also enjoyed working on the lawn, where he fought a perpetual battle with "exterior illumination," the backyard lighting.
Leland was predeceased by his parents, Leland Graves, Jr., and Marion Graves, and a sister, Brenda. He is survived by his wife, Beverly, children Ian Graves, PhD (Amanda), Emma Graves DPT, and Jonah Graves, MD (Christina) and his five grandchildren: Ira, Rachel, Daphne, Teddy, and Joseph. He is also survived by a sister Judy Graves (Rich Dann) and brother Bryan Graves (Vonda) as well as other relatives and dear friends.
A celebration of life ceremony will be held at Village Presbyterian Church in Prairie Village, KS on Saturday January 4th at 1pm.
The family is forever grateful for the highly skilled and compassionate care he (and they) received at the University of Kansas Medical Center.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to KU Endowment for the benefit of the Division of Endocrinology at the University of Kansas Medical Center, or to Dignity: Liberia (www.dignityliberia.org), or to UMKC School of Medicine.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Leland Graves
Sponsored by Kansas City Star.
Gala
December 15, 2025
It´s hard to believe a year has passed. I still think about Dr. Graves so often. He was such a steady, reassuring presence in my life for so many years, through health crises, recovery, and everything in between. I´ve deeply felt the absence of his care and calming presence.
He wasn´t just a doctor to me, he was someone I trusted completely, someone who made me feel safe, heard, and cared for. That kind of trust is rare, and I miss it deeply, and I miss him.
To his loved ones and colleagues: please know he is still remembered with so much gratitude and affection. His impact is lasting, and I carry it with me.
Kamyar Asadipooya, MD at the University of Kentucky
May 5, 2025
My deepest condolences to his family.
He was wonderful person and physician.
Kitti Carriker
February 28, 2025
"Where there is sorrow, there is holy ground." ~ Oscar Wilde
Linda C. Harris
February 15, 2025
Dr. Graves was my endocrinologist, mentor, friend, and medical compass for 25 years. I only just heard that he left us two weeks ago yesterday. Yesterday I had to visit KU Med Center and the experience was so painful and difficult. My doctor showed such respect and adulation for Dr. Graves that my pain grew more intense. I knew that his legacy has touched and will continue to touch so many. And, I was acutely aware of how much I have lost and how much the world has lost.
He so dearly loved his wife. When we were talking, once of so many times, I remember his saying, in a dreamy state like he flashed back to the first time he saw her, that he loved her from the moment he saw her. He was so enraptured.
He loved his kids. They were near the same age as mine and went to the same schools. Then he had grandchildren, I remember the birth of his first. He lived far away. Now he has five. The last time I saw him, in October 2024, I gave him a bear that I made to recognize our 25 years together as doctor and patient. He acted like he had never had a gift before, that was Dr. Graves. As he walked me to the door to leave, he said that he'd have Daphne name the bear and tell me what she named it. I guess I'll never find out, but I hope that he knew. He made everything and everyone special.
Would it not have been for that happenstance at Truman Medical Center when a nurse in his department said she wanted me to see Dr. Graves instead of the doctor I was scheduled to see, if he had not worked me in that day even though he was not accepting new patients, I literally probably not be alive today.
How do I write all that this means to me? By happenstance I met one of the most important people in my life ... in the entire world. Ever. I am not ready to say good-bye.
How you can show support
Follow
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Simonetta Gunya
February 13, 2025
Dr. Graves was a great doctor, caring and dedicated. I have been a patient of his since I was dx. In over 20 years of care, I was always able to see him for all my appointments. That show how much he really cared for his patients. He will be truly missed. My condolences to the family.
michelle sweeney
February 9, 2025
Rec'd a nomination from KUMC for inclusion in our Heroes in Healthcare program.
Unfortunately, Dr Grave passed away making him ineligible for the award. However, the nomination form written by his colleagues and I thought the family would appreciate its thoughtful commentary.
This is their nomination:
" Titles reflect the work a person does, but not who a person truly is. Dr Lee Graves was the perfect example of this. Dr Graves devoted his career to medicine, and to mentoring the next generations of physicians. His lifetime of service ended far sooner than anyone who knew him would have liked, as he passed away in December 2024 after a brief illness.
Dr Graves held many titles: Chief of Staff at the University of Kansas Hospital, Professor of Medicine and Director of the Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Clinical Pharmacology at the University of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Clinical Pharmacology at the University of Kansas City Medical Center, and for 18 years of the Endocrinology Fellowship Programs.
But those titles are not what made Dr. Graves a hero. His passion for mentoring the next generation of physicians will resonate across this region and in places across the country where residents, fellows, and physicians with whom he worked over the decades of service at
The University of Kansas Health Systems and Medical Center continue to serve.
Dr Graves always had time. Even when he didn't, the person he was speaking with never knew it. He was focused on each moment. As a physician, he knew what that means to patients. Be he also knew that meant to everyone in his life.
As so many People have reflected on Dr Graves, the phrase the kindest person you will ever meet" has been said time and time again.
What made Dr Graves unique in his kindness and consummate goodness were coupled with his incredible expertise. He was sought after by colleagues and patients alike for his wisdom and perspective, each one knowing he would make the time. As one colleague said, "He was a true servant leader, dedicated to this organization and its mission, and to each one of us. The world would
better with Dr Graves still here, but it will be forever changed for the time he was with us. "
RIP Dr Graves and thank you for your lifetime of being a true Hero in Healthcare. Michelle Sweeney-Ingram's .
,
Karen Kellenberger
February 1, 2025
Dr. Graves was kind and caring to me as his patient. He explained his thoughts and up to date knowledge on my questions and concerns. You each have my sympathy in your loss--he was a special man. He will be greatly missed by his patients and all who knew him. God be with you and comfort you.
Cheryl
February 1, 2025
I only heard yesterday (1/31/25) about Lee's passing after being in contact with him and Beverly over the past few years trying to connect him with his very old, dear friend, Mike. I was so delighted to hear that they did, in fact, meet in person last year. My condolences to the family.
Victoria Monaco
January 29, 2025
I received a letter today, Jan. 29, informing me of my favorite doctor´s passing. I was a patient of his 28 years. I am saddened and shocked.
I´m a retired educator of LS R-7 District. We knew people in common. I looked forward to seeing him annually. He was trusted, friendly, brilliant and humble.
Once, after an appointment, I wandered around for a full half hour in the hospital trying to find my way to the exit to the newly opened parking lot. He found me on the first floor on his way somewhere and said, "Are you still here?".
This gracious man guided me. As busy as he was (always), as important as he was, he helped me to find the exit. The Chief of Staff of a prestigious hospital paused to help a lost patient he saw 30 minutes prior.
I express my deepest sympathy to his family. I pray for the repose of his soul and the grace of God to support you through the grief you are experiencing.
CATHY C TARR
January 27, 2025
We just received a letter about his passing. We were devastated. Dr. Graves treated my son for generic kidney disease and he was the kindest, sweetest man. Bless your family and many thanks to Dr. Graves for all he did for everyone
Kelsea
January 24, 2025
Dr. Graves was such a gifted, caring physician who gave everything to his work. I didn´t know him outside of the hospital but he was a special man. I dreaded the day he would retire but this is so much worse. He was a bright soul and will be missed. Thoughts and prayers sent to his family.
Andrea Torlina
January 20, 2025
Hi Bev..so very sorry to hear that your sweetheart has left so soon for heaven..love to you and your family...Andrea Torlina and Pat Guthrie...way back from Truman East...
Gala
January 19, 2025
Dr. Graves has been a cornerstone in my life for most of my adult years, guiding me through some of my most challenging battles with compassion, wisdom, and unwavering support. He wasn´t just my doctor; he was a steadfast ally in my journey with thyroid cancer and beyond. His kindness, care, and expertise were unmatched, and I always felt seen and heard in his presence.
I feel so fortunate to have had Dr. Graves as my physician, and his loss leaves an immense void in my life and the lives of so many others who were blessed to know him.
To his family and loved ones: Please know how deeply he impacted the lives of his patients. His legacy of care, compassion, and excellence will remain in our hearts forever. May his memory be a comfort and an inspiration to all who knew him.
Howard Parks
January 15, 2025
Much love and condolences to Dr. Graves family during this time
Marvin Sinsakul
January 9, 2025
Dr. Graves was my docent at UMKC and among my first and most influential mentors. His clinical acumen, intellect, spirit, energy and kindness still inspires me. Grateful to have known such a wonderful person.
Jim Steffen
January 8, 2025
I'm so sorry to have such a sudden loss of someone who meant so much to so many. My thoughts and prayers are with Bev, Ian, Emma and Jonah. I was glad to be able to attend his celebration of life where learned more about what a impact Lee had made in his life. Certainly a role model to all of us. His children are such wonderful people and am glad to have known them a little. I hope to get a chance to express my condolences to Bev sometime in person but I know she is overwhelmed now. So glad to have known Lee.
Dan OConnell
January 7, 2025
Dr. Graves was a wonderful caregiver for me.
Kerry Magruder
January 5, 2025
Lee Graves is one of the best friends I´ve ever had. As roommates in college, he extended unconditional friendship to me over many years with unmatched generosity of spirit and open-hearted wisdom. I cannot ever think of him without a sense of utter gratitude for his influence on my life, coupled with a sense of joy due to the sheer delight of knowing him. I think of Lee as Faramir, who in the books (not the movies) acted with deep and understated wisdom because of his receptivity to old lore; how fitting that it was Lee himself who first persuaded me to read Tolkien! Just one of countless ways he has shaped who I am. Dear Beverly and family, we mourn your great loss and pray for your comfort in this time.
Jill Rangarajan
January 4, 2025
I am so sad to hear of Dr. Graves' passing. I was a long time patient and first started seeing him after I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer. Dr. Graves was unique---always prepared, friendly, and listened so well. He always asked me how I was and then listened to me. He asked follow up questions that showed me that he truly cared and wanted to help. Dr. Graves ran additional tests to help solve the issue of *why* I was getting recurrent kidney stones and "dove deep" to figure out why...He always remembered my medical history but more importantly, made me feel important and valued. I truly hope that the messages of love from patients like me help to ease the sadness your family must feel. Thank you Dr. Graves---you will be truly missed!!
Connie Stilwell
January 4, 2025
Dr. Graves became Lee as I discovered he was my neighbor. He treated me at the KUMC Endocrinology Department. He was always ready for my appointments. He had often studied my test results, and he had suggestions for my care. He was a teacher, and he explained everything in detail Most of all he was caring, compassionate and very smart! If you left him a message on MyChart, he always answered with complete information. I will miss waving to him as he left for work and I on my morning walk. He truly was the most skillful, kind and helpful physician that I have ever had. My love to his family. I know he will be missed by them and by all of his patients and colleagues. Thank you, Dr. Graves. You have been a special person in my life.
Rudi Karnchanasorn
January 4, 2025
Dr.Graves. I could never thank you enough for always being there for me and everyone and setting exceptional examples of being a boss, colleague, mentor, and a genuine human being. I will forever remember how special it was to work with you, and what a privilege it was.
Stephanie Pessin
January 3, 2025
I was a patient of Doctor Graves for many years. He was my absolute favorite doctor and I had total confidence that he always had my best interests in mind. He was so knowledgeable in his field and was so thorough in his explanations of my condition and how to best treat it. He was interesting, personable and I looked forward to my yearly visit with him. I was so saddened by his passing and will truly miss him. I hope your cherished memories of him will be a comfort to you and your family.
Stephanie Pessin
Martin (Marty) Emert
January 3, 2025
Wow! Too short! From UMKC to KU Lee exemplified everything a physician, leader and person should be-compassionate, caring, giving remarkably intelligent, kind and a wonderful teacher and colleague! Lee will be terribly missed. We send our prayers and positive energy to you and your family during this very difficult time time.
Belinda Henderson
January 2, 2025
Please accept my sincere condolences. I pray comfort and strength for your family in the days ahead.
Karen Moses
December 30, 2024
He was not only my physician but my friend and my anchor. You will be missed daily.
Etta thomas
December 27, 2024
Absent from the body, present with the Lord. He will be missed at kU. My condolences and prayers to the family. He was a great physician and teacher.
Barbara Ruddy
December 26, 2024
Beverly and family, I am so sorry for the sudden and devastating loss of Lee. I can only imagine the shock and grief you are experiencing. I hope there will be a time when you find joy in his memory.
Cindy Pearson
December 24, 2024
Dr. Graves is the most empathetic, compassionate, brilliant, doctor I have ever known. He was truly one in a million. I have been a patient for over 20 years. Upon our first consultation I recognized him as our sons were in school and scouts together. I felt a sense of ease, he was inquisitive, thorough, and his diagnosis of my illness was delivered with care and compassion.
I considered him a friend and was always in awe of his brilliant mind and his level of exemplary care for me as an individual. He asked about my family every time and genuinely cared about my life.
Leland was a great man and a master physician. I will miss him and remember him fondly.
My prayers are with his beautiful family, colleagues, friends, and his patients.
Richard N. Griggs
December 24, 2024
Just learned today of Dr. Graves passing. An absolute shock. He has been my doctor for many many years. The finest doctor I have ever had. Very good at explaining issues, easy to speak with and had a wonderful presence when treating you. Will miss him tremendously. I could always count on his expertise and advise. Very sad day. I wish his family the very best. Dr. Graves was someone to be proud of.
Charles Orth and Beth Rosemergey
December 23, 2024
Bev and family our hearts are full of memories as neighbors,friends, and scouting parents. We were blessed by knowing Lee and his passionate heart to help others. Our thoughts are with you all.
Michele Kilo and Blake Mathews
December 23, 2024
Dear Bev and family ~ Blake and I are full of sorrow at the loss of such a truly GOOD man. Lee always greeted with a smile and warmth, and his kindness shown through in everything he did. We will remember him always. Keeping you and your family close in our hearts.
Beth Simpson
December 22, 2024
Bev and Family, what a wonderful man, spouse, dad and grandfather! Rick and I are heartbroken for you! Much love and prayers for you at this difficult time.
Ann Lintecum
December 22, 2024
Condolences to Ian and family. Donated to Dignity Liberia.
Rebecca Opole MD FACP
December 21, 2024
Dr Graves was not only a great Physician but also a wonderful, down to earth colleague that was friendly and approachable.
He will be missed a lot at the Kansas University Medical Center. I wish his family condolences during this tough time. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Stephanie
December 21, 2024
This news makes me so sad! Leland was my senior medicine resident at KUMC when I was an intern. Those were the days when we did 6 weeks of Medicine rotation, frequent overnight call and no days off so our teams became quite close. During that rotation my uncle became severely injured by his own hand and it was torture for me to round on our icu patients. He saw this and relieved me from that duty. I have remembered this kindness and have been forever grateful.....all these years.
Prayers for your family.
Deb Sanning
December 21, 2024
Bev and family, I am so sorry for the sudden loss. Lee was a great friend and neighbor and his loss is grieved by our family. Our prayers and whole heart are with you.
Hieu Doan
December 21, 2024
I was saddened to hear about the passing of Dr. Graves. My thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time. Dr. Graves is a kind person and helpful throughout my early carreer at KU. I remember the prompted response and guidance from him when I have questions in treatment of patient in a challenge case. I remember his attitude when I contact him up at 3-4 AM. He is and will be greatly missed!
Mary Nagy
December 20, 2024
I met Lee when we were 18 years old as we started the six year program at UMKC. I recently became his patient. He played the piano at my wedding reception. He was always so kind, talented and fun to be with. He will be dearly missed and his memories will live on as he contributed so much to his friends, family and patients.
Kamal Gupta
December 20, 2024
I have known Lee for almost 15 years as a colleague. I cannot remember one instance where he was anything but kind, courteous, and professional.
I sought his expert opinion often by stopping him on the hallway or by sending him a message through email or electronic medical record. He always responded in great detail after reviewing the chart and within 48 hours. I could always count on his well informed opinion and the patients were always better off because of that.
This is such a big loss and a void that may never be filled.
Wishing my best to his loving family
Daniel Ortiz
December 20, 2024
I had the privilege of learning from Dr. Graves during residency, and through the month was brief his lessons and wisdom have stayed with me. I am saddened to hear of his passing, but grateful I had the opportunity to work with him and see him when I started working at the hospital. He was an incredible human being and I will miss his quips dearly.
Jennifer Elliott
December 20, 2024
Dr. Graves was a wonderful mentor. I had the privilege of working with him as an intern at UMKC and found him to be among the best teachers I had during my medical training. I am very sad to hear of his passing and send my heartfelt condolences to his family.
Mary Washington
December 20, 2024
My, our prayers are with you and your family
Showing 1 - 47 of 47 results
Make a Donation
in Leland Graves's name
Memorial Events
for Leland Graves
How to support Leland's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Leland Graves's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
