Cynthia Joyce Graves

1943 - 2024

Cynthia Maria Joyce was born on May 15, 1943, in Belfast, Ireland. She was the daughter of Sarah "Sally" McDonough Joyce and Patrick Joseph Joyce and shared a special bond with her sister, Pauline Colette Irwin Joyce.

Cynthia was preceded in death by her father, mother, and sister.

In her youth, Cynthia ventured from her Irish roots to London with her mother and sister, eventually making the life-changing decision to immigrate to the United States on October 16, 1961. Their path led them to Chicago, Illinois, where they resided with her aunt, laying the foundation for her life ahead.

On March 25, 1975, in Smithtown, New York, Cynthia joined hands in marriage with Gordon Thomas Graves, with whom she spent 40 years. Though their paths diverged, Cynthia's love and care extended to Gordon's children: Steve Graves and his wife, Liliana, of Round Rock, TX; Brenda Hammond and her husband, Blake, of Colorado City, TX; Beth Tarter and her husband, Glenn, of Wichita Falls, TX; and Jody Wood and her husband, David, of Crowell, TX. She had a multitude of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, creating lovely memories that spanned decades. In her final years, her granddaughter Kristen Graves Daniel provided unwavering care and love.

During her life journey, Cynthia embraced numerous cities across the United States. Her young adult years were spent in Los Angeles, where her passion for writing flourished. She worked as a journalist for Time magazine and collaborated on an article for The Rolling Stone. Later in her career, she spent time as a technical writer and editing consultant for the oil industry. She met Gordon in Los Angeles and in joining his path lived in Austin, Texas; Houston, Texas; Dallas, Texas; Stow, Massachusetts; Medford, New York; and Reno, Nevada. She eventually returned to Austin, a place that truly became her home. She proudly served as a board member of the Graves Foundation for many years. Her compassionate spirit extended to volunteering with Operation Back to Work and supporting initiatives to aid veterans.

Cynthia's interests were as diverse as her life experiences. An avid reader, she found solace in books that expanded her horizons. She loved learning, especially languages. She spoke Spanish rather fluently, some French, and even a bit of Gaelic! She took joy in French culture, collecting art, and enjoying music. Her heart was tender toward animals, especially her beloved dog, Beaux. Cynthia's love for Beaux was evident in every gesture, from indulging him with Evian water to ordering steaks for him to enjoy at home and letting him savor an abundance of treats.

Among Cynthia's most treasured memories was time spent with her dear sister, Colette, walking along beaches, picking flowers.

On March 28, 2024, Cynthia Joyce Graves peacefully departed this world with her loving family by her side at Fairway Vista Assisted Living in Round Rock, Texas. The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staffs at Fairway Vista and Concho Hearts Hospice, who improved the quality of life in her final years and cared for her deeply. A private service will be held to honor Cynthia's life. Donations to a charity of choice in lieu of flowers will be an appropriate way to honor Cynthia and will be most appreciated.