Joseph Lee Grafton
Joseph Lee Grafton
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Joseph Grafton Obituary
Joseph was born on June 23, 1978, in Meridian, Mississippi to Thadis "Thad" Franklin Grafton and Diana Lisa Messina Grafton. He earned his bachelor's degree in business management at the University of Massachusetts in Boston. Joseph enjoyed DJing and playing music. He founded several nonprofit organizations that were dedicated to teaching small business owners how to survive, participate and compete with the big box stores. He was an avid advocate for small business owners. He was also a member of King Solomon's Lodge in Summerville, Massachusetts.
He is survived by his father, Thadis "Thad" Grafton and wife Marcia of Frankvlle, AL; brother, Wayne Grafton and wife Dora of Jackson, AL; sisters, Alana Wellons of Griffin, GA and Alicia Cortes of Oklahoma City, OK; and a host of nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his mother, Diana Lisa Messina.
Visit bumpersfuneralhome.com to sign the online register and post condolences to the family.
Arrangements entrusted to Bumpers Funeral Home of Butler.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Suzanne, aunt
Yesterday
Aurelio and all Joe's family of friends,
Thank you for this beautiful memorial. It feels like you've brought Joe home. Joe's life should be celebrated, as you did, for the gifts and joy he gave the world. I wish I had been given the chance to know him later in life, but I did know him as a very young boy and spend time with him; he had that same huge smile and grin and fun-loving nature. The remembrance you provided will stay in all of our hearts, forever. Not a religious person, I still believe you brought Joe home, at peace among his family of friends.
Donald Coutoumas Worshipful Master
February 26, 2026
Remembering our Brother , taken too soon . Officers and members of King Solomon´s Lodge AF&AM , Arlington MA
Shawn and Alyson Brede
February 9, 2026
Even though we only knew Joe for a short time we were deeply saddened to hear about his passing. Joe came into our friend group this past September for a little over a month. During that time he came to games, music shows, dinners and was very much a part of us. He was always thoughtful and kind and I personally enjoyed just having few drinks and talking to him about life. I hope we were able to offer him the same along with some joy and that he is now at peace.
Kim and Kris Butler
January 10, 2026
We were sad to hear of Joe's passing. He was a childhood friend of ours and he was a good friend to all of us. May he rest in peace.
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Gary Walker
January 9, 2026
Joe was a true gentleman and a real class act. He was always good for a laugh, but also an ear when he knew it was best just to listen. I'm sad I didn't get to say a proper guy, but know he's at peace now.
Koren
January 9, 2026
Joe was always there for me with what I needed: a joke, a laugh, sometimes a good cry. He was highly principled, and loved and supported his community in a way you don´t see every day - he didn´t just talk the talk (although he could do that extremely well), he walked the walk. Even when it was inconvenient. Even when it would have been easier to sell out. He would listen with an open mind, but once his mind was made up, he wouldn´t waiver and he wouldn´t hesitate. I wonder about what I would have said differently, if I knew it was the last time I´d see him - but at least I know I gave him a hug and we said "love you", because that´s how he said goodbye to his friends. I´ll miss him and his laugh and his music, hugs and I love yous to everyone he left behind.
Jonathan Buck
January 9, 2026
Love you Brother
Koren Bernardi
January 9, 2026
Dan DAloisio
January 9, 2026
Joe you will always be my mayor.
You taught me so much, and opened so many doors for me over the years.
Hats off to you.
I love you
Dave Wedge
January 9, 2026
Sending Joe´s family love. He was beloved here in Boston by so many. I always enjoyed my time with Joe and had tremendous respect for the passion and commitment he exhibited to his community. I will miss his laugh, smile and energy. So sorry for your loss.
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302 Vanity Fair Avenue, Butler, AL 36904
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