Estes Donald Graves

Estes “Donald” Graves, 81, of Gulfport, MS passed away on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories.

Born on January 17, 1944, in Biloxi, Donald demonstrated his dedication to service early in life when he joined the Marine Corps in 1961. His five years of proud service to his country set the foundation for a life filled with love and camaraderie. After his honorable discharge, Donald turned his focus to raising his beloved family, spending nearly three decades working with Pepsi Bottling Company. His time as a truck driver, delivering drinks from Louisiana to Mississippi, held a special place in his heart until his retirement in 2012.

Donald was a man of many passions. He relished the thrill of watching football and wrestling, often recording his favorite moments. The call of the great outdoors drew him in; whether it was hunting, fishing, or simply enjoying the tranquility of nature, he could often be found outside from dawn till dusk. His front porch became a welcoming haven for neighbors, and he delighted in their company, earning the affectionate nickname “pawpaw”. Donald’s warm spirit and outgoing nature meant he never met a stranger; he had a remarkable ability to leave a lasting impression on everyone he encountered.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Estes and Flora Graves; seven siblings, Gale Stone, Earline Howell, Carolyn Griffin, James Graves, Jerry Hogan, Ray Graves, and Buddy White; grandson, Jason Graves; and two great-grandchildren, Camar’i Barrett and Keagen Peterson.

Donald’s memory will live on through his devoted wife of 60 years, Dellene Graves, and his loving daughters, Pam (Glenn) Miller, Janet (Doyle) Ladner, and Peggy (Archie) Roberts. His legacy continues with his grandchildren, Deven Graves, Lance Graves, Stefan Miller, Dylan Miller, Hunter Miller, and Nadia Moody, along with great-grandchildren Shyla Graves, A’Niyah Keys, Kimani Graves, Sebastian Miller, Brantlyn Miller, Brylee Miller, Zoey Nyholm, Tyler Graves, Karsen Moran, Koby Ladner, Kole Ladner, Roper Ladner, Kherington Moody, and Alaia Moody. He is further survived by his sisters, Dorothy Reed, Louise Harwell, and Mildred Jackson; brother, Junior Graves; and his loyal pet, Sugar.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Memorial Hospital, Deaconess Home Health (Nurse Jen and Nurse Reagan), and Arden Hospice staff (Nurse Quinn) for their compassionate care during Donald’s final journey.

Visitation will be held Friday, February 7, 2025 at Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home, 15TH Street, Gulfport, MS, from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. with a Funeral Service at 2:00 p.m. Interment to follow at Floral Hills Memorial Gardens, where he will receive honors from the U.S. Marine Corps.

Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the Graves family during this time of remembrance. Donald’s spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved him.