John Henry Graves

John Henry Graves, 93, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 5, 2026, at his home in Hernando, MS. A visitation will be held Friday, April 10, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., with a celebration of life following at 2:00 p.m., all at Coleman Funeral Home of Southaven (626 Star Landing Road East, Southaven, MS 38672). Interment will follow at DeSoto Memorial Gardens. Coleman Funeral Home of Southaven is in charge of arrangements. John loved Jesus above all and accepted Christ at a young age—an early faith that shaped every part of his life. He was an active and devoted member of Colonial Baptist Church in Memphis, TN, where he joyfully served in the singles ministry, youth ministry, and went on many mission trips where he developed the name “Big Block” from driving the bus. His service to the church was an overflow of the kindness and compassion he showed to everyone he met. His servant-style of leadership also extended to his community. Every Wednesday, he would work with the Mission in Memphis to feed and clothe the homeless. He truly never met a stranger and carried a warm sense of humor that made people feel at home in his presence. Born with a gentle heart and a generous spirit, Mr. Graves was a gifted gardener of flowers and vegetables, and a man who treated every person with dignity and grace. He especially loved his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and nothing made him happier than having his family close. At just 16 years old, John met the love of his life, Rosa Nell, on a basketball court—a chance meeting that blossomed into a lifelong love story. They became high school sweethearts and went on to share 74 years of marriage filled with faith, laughter, and unwavering devotion. At age 19, he joined the Army and served his country for six years (two years active and four years in the reserves.) Nell was by his side the whole time he served. John is survived by his two sons, Johnny Dale (Donna) Graves and Christopher Douglas (Frankie) Graves; his daughter, Theresa Gayle (Tony) Smith; his four grandsons, Jeremy (Keri) Graves, Ross (Lauren) Smith, Jake (Jessica) Graves, and Thomas Graves; his granddaughter, Brittany (Andrew) Smith; his four great-granddaughters, Gracyn Hare, Emma Graves, Allie Graves, and Maddie Graves; his two great-grandsons, Cole Graves and Archie Smith; his brother, Larry G. Graves; many beloved friends and extended family members. He was preceded in death by his wife of 74 years, Rosa Nell Graves; his parents, Hugh Frazier and Carrie Lee Moody Graves; and his grandson, Johnathan Graves. John Henry Graves was a remarkable man—faithful, joyful, kind, and deeply loved. His legacy of love, service, and Christ-centered living will continue in the hearts of all who knew him. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to St. Jude Children’s Hospital in honor of Mr. Graves (stjude.org). Expressions of condolences may be shared on his Tribute Wall at www.colemanfuneralhomesh.com.

John Henry Graves

July 7, 1932 - April 5, 2026

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