Hulan Lee Graves

Hulan Lee Graves, born on July 12, 1939, in Files Valley, Texas, embarked on his final journey on December 12, 2023, leaving behind a tapestry of cherished memories and an enduring legacy of love.
Hulan's roots were in Italy, Texas, where he grew up surrounded by love and a sense of community. He attended Italy High School and later pursued his education at Navarro College, setting the foundation for a life filled with dedication and hard work.
Driven by a profound sense of duty and service, Hulan proudly served in the United States Army, a chapter in his life that shaped his commitment to honor, discipline, and resilience.
Throughout his professional journey, Hulan distinguished himself as a skilled machinist and electrician at Hensley Industries. His dedication and expertise earned him respect among peers and admiration from those who crossed paths with him.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Hulan found solace and joy in his faith, being an active member of the Long Branch Community Baptist Church. He cherished the sense of community and fellowship that came with his involvement.
Hulan's life was adorned with simple joys, from the green of the golf course to the serenity of fishing. He found pleasure in these moments of tranquility, savoring the beauty of nature and the peace it offered.
Hulan's heart found its lifelong companion in Joy Elaine Dyer, whom he married on June 5, 1959. Together, they raised a beautiful family filled with love and laughter. He was a loving father to Queneth Ledenham, Shanna Horton, Maureen Youngblood, and Joe Freeze. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the joy of his life, and his love for them knew no bounds.
Hulan was a beacon of joy and laughter, always with a playful spirit and a heart full of love for children. His affection for them was evident in his pockets filled with candy and the freezer stocked with popsicles, always ready to bring a smile to their faces.
Left to cherish his memory are his daughters, Queneth Ledenham and husband Chad, Shanna Horton and husband Darrell, Maureen Youngblood and husband Wayne, his son Joe Freeze, 11 grandchildren, and 19 great-grandchildren. His family was the center of his world, and their presence illuminated his life with immeasurable happiness.
Hulan was preceded in death by his father, mother, and sister, Helen Juanita Graves Ratliff, but their memories live on in the hearts of those who loved him.
A celebration of Hulan's life will be held to honor the enduring impact he had on the lives of those around him. His kindness, wisdom, and playful spirit will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. A visitation will take place on Thursday, December 14, 2023 from 5 to 7 in the evening at Midlothian Funeral Home. A service to celebrate his life will take place on Friday at 11 o'clock in the morning at Midlothian Funeral Home. A graveside service will take place at 3 at Frost Cemetery in Frost, Texas.
"In the garden of memory, we will meet again."