James Charlton Graves

James "Jimmy" Charlton Graves of Syria, Virginia passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Sunday, October 26, 2025. Jimmy is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Rachel Norman Graves; his sons James "Lucky" Graves, Jr (Missy), Lynn Graves (Tricia); his grandchildren James Graves III (fiancé Olivia), Zoe Herring (Miles), Amelia Adams (Logan), William Graves (fiancé Lane), Cole Graves; his great-grandchildren Jacqueline Herring and Roslyn Herring. Jimmy was preceded in death by his parents Elvin "Mr. Jack" and Etta Kate Graves; and brother Elvin "Jackie" Graves, Jr.

Jimmy was born on June 22, 1936, and raised in Syria, Virginia. He graduated from Madison County High School then attended a postgraduate year at Woodberry Forest.

After receiving his BS degree in agricultural economics at Virgina Tech and two years in the armed forces in Germany, he came back home to the farm to carry on the family tradition of hospitality and farming.

Jimmy was quite an accomplished athlete playing baseball for Madison County High School, the Valley League, at Virginia Tech, and while in Germany. He announced for Madison County Football games during Eddie Dean's tenure.

Jimmy and Rachel met while they were involved in 4H and married in 1964. Thereafter, they began to raise their two boys, passing on their love of family, tradition, home and values.

One of Jimmy's greatest accomplishments was when he and Rachel started Graves Mountain Lodge in the spring of 1965, which continues to be a very successful business, operating as Graves Mountain Farm and Lodges.

Jimmy spent many hours on his tractor, not only reading, but envisioning future concepts for the Lodge.

Jimmy and Rachel shared a love for sports - baseball, basketball, and football. They proudly supported and shared their love for the Hoo's and Hokies.

Jimmy had a passion for Madison County and served on many local and state boards and committees. Because of his involvement and kindness, Jimmy had friends spread far and wide.

The funeral service will be held at Hebron Lutheran Church, Madison, Virginia on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at 11:00 am with The Rev. James Kniceley officiating. Committal will follow at the church cemetery. The Graves Family invites everyone to join them in celebrating Jimmy's life at a reception at the Lodge after the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Jimmy's name, to Hebron Lutheran Church Foundation, P.O. Box 1009, Madison, VA 22727, or 4H Program of Madison County, checks made to Virginia Tech Foundation, 902 Prices Fork Road, Attn: Gift Accounting, Blacksburg, VA 24061.

Here is the live stream information:

https://tinyurl.com/ycxfbp67

https://www.youtube.com/@HebronLutheran1717/streams