Ms. Cynthia Ann Graves

Cynthia Ann Graves departed from her earthly home on Sunday, December 25, 2022, at CHI St. Vincent hospital.  She was born on March 17, 1957, to the union of Edna Mae Edwards-Graves and Jeffery Graves, Jr. in Hot Springs, AR, both of whom preceded her in death, as well as her two brothers: Joe Eddie Graves and Gene Ray Graves; two sisters: Kay Sharon Colbert and Peggy Louise Graves-Cheatham; nephew, Jorocko Graves, and niece, Jamila Burkes.

As a child, Cynthia was brought up under the leadership of Mother Elnora Durr at the Evangelist Temple Church of God in Christ House of Refuge for All Nations.  Early in her adult life, she joined Nazarene Missionary Baptist Church where Reverend James F. Lambert, Sr. pastored.  She retained her membership there as Pastor James F. Lambert, Jr. became pastor.  Cynthia’s faith in God showed in everything that she did.  She instilled the need to receive Jesus as the Lord and Savior in her two daughters, Tanychi and Le’Cynda throughout their lives.  She loved to praise God and gave him glory and honor in all her successes.  She had a ministry of giving in which she delivered gifts of love to those in need.  She always left them with a word of prayer and a message of salvation.

Cynthia’s education began at Goldstein Elementary School, continuing at the Historical Langston Junior/Senior High for 7th grade, Central Junior High for 8th – 9th grade, and graduating from Hot Springs High School in 1975.  She received an Associate in Criminal Justice from the former Garland County Community College in 1989.  She attended Henderson State University shortly thereafter to continue her studies in Human Services. 

Pre-Covid she was instrumental in uniting members of the Class of 1975 for monthly lunches.  She became a member of the local chapter of the NAACP unit #6013 in 2004. She recently renewed her membership.   She enjoyed giving back to her community and traditionaly volunteered to help serve dinner to the needed-on Christmas at the Annual Nathaniel " Bob" Freeman Memorial Christmas Dinner.  She was secretary of the non-profit organization C.R.U.SH.  As an organizer she will be remembered for the Meet and Greet she orchestrated for the Spa Creation and Homie Reunions as well as helping with the Langston Reunion Old Fashion Social.

Cynthia had unwavering faith in the Lord.  She loved her family and was known for never departing without a word of prayer.  She had the ability to cover every hope, desire, achievement, worry, ailment, and cures through her prayers while quoting scriptures.  Her favorite scripture comes from Genesis 50: 20 KJV… “But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive”.  Her favorite prophet was Paul.  She often reflected on his trials and tribulations in his Christian walk.  When faced with obstacles in life, she found consolation in saying...but my God can supply all my needs. Philippians 4:19 KJV… “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus”. 

Cynthia worked as an Administrative Assistant in the Hot Springs School District.  She found joy in her job and the opportunity she had to influence the lives of so many children and young adults.  She retired in 2019 due to health issues, yet she continued to reach out to children, young adults, and seniors through her daily walk.

Cynthia was quite the conversationalist.  She quickly gained friends and always left a lasting impression on those she encountered.  Once a friend, always a friend as shown through lifelong friendships with her classmates.

She leaves behind to cherish her memories, her two daughters: Tanychi Graves-White and Le’Cynda Brown both of Hot Springs; seven grandchildren: Dorecus Ferguson of Michigan, Calvin Ka’Lowel Ward, Derek Locke, Jr., Damani Douglas, Gabrielle Huell, My’Leah Brown and Lilianna all of Hot Springs; three sisters: Carolyn (Freddie) Russey of Mineral Springs, Linda (Dewayne) Franklin, and Jeannette Brewer of Hot Springs; one brother, Joe Carter of Little Rock, AR; nephews who were like sons: Carlos Brewer, Jerry Burkes, Jr., James Graves, Ricardo Brewer, Dewayne Franklin, Jr., and Stephon Graves; nieces who were like daughters: Anquina Graves, Edina Kilgore, Karayan Wilson-Carrigan, Ramona Brown, DeWanna Franklin, and Freda Russey; two paternal aunts: Nola Roberts and Missionary Louise Chambers both of Hot Springs; special cousins who played a huge role in Cynthia’s upbringing: Betty Lou Anderson and Teressa White, as well as many cousins who were like siblings, and friends: Stella Kidd, Beverly Smith, and Barbara Tucker who were like sisters.  

Cynthia’s Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11:00 A. M., on Saturday, December 31, 2022, at Nazarene Baptist Church in Hot Springs. Her visitation will be held that morning at the church, from 9:00-10:45 A. M. Her earthly body will be laid to rest in Flint Hill Cemetery in Mineral Springs, Arkansas.

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