Published: November 25, 2009 09:41 am      

Live Oak resident Bill Graves passes

William R. 'Bill' Graves, 80, of Live Oak, FL, passed away suddenly on Sunday, November 22, 2009. Mr. Graves was born in Port Arthur, TX, on November 16, 1929. He grew up in Palatka, FL. He moved his family from Merritt Island to Live Oak in 1970. Mr. Graves was a veteran of the United States Navy, a 32nd degree Master of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry since 1968, and a member of the Morocco Shriners organization of Jacksonville, FL. He was an ironworker with Union Local 808 for over 30 years, during which time he helped construct Disney World, the John F. Kennedy Space Center, and other projects across the Southeast. He was also a past member of the Live Oak Kiwanis Club and attended St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church. Mr. Graves owned and operated Graves Realty of Live Oak for over 30 years. He enjoyed bowling, fishing, baseball, the beach, and barbecuing. His love for this country was second only to his love for family and friends.

He is preceded in death by his wife of 53 years, Betty D. Graves.

He is survived by two daughters, Toni Graves and Melanie (Johnny) Chambliss, both of Live Oak; and three grandchildren, Shanna Chambliss, Tyler Chambliss, and Sarah E. Parker.

A visitation for Mr. Graves will be held from 5:00 - 7:00 pm, Wednesday, November 25, 2009, at Daniels Funeral Home in Live Oak.

Daniels Funeral Homes & Crematory, Inc., Live Oak, FL, is in charge of all arrangements.