Nelson Lee Graves

Nelson was the real deal—the true meaning of a man of honor. Deeply patriotic, he was proud to be an American and lived his life with purpose, freedom, and gratitude. He had a deep love for the open road, whether riding one of his Harleys, driving his Morgan, or spending time on his beloved boat, the Swampdonkey. He was featured in several magazines such as Easyriders, Full Throttle, and The Antique Motorcycle. He had many builds and restorations, earning him several awards through the years.

A hardworking man, Nelson spent his life earning everything he had through determination and grit. In 1983, Nelson started Alternative Machine Co. and built it into a successful business. He was a lifelong learner and never backed down from a challenge.

He was a loving husband to his wife, Lisa, of 25 years. He was also a wonderful provider who cared deeply for his family. He carried himself with humility, strength, and integrity.

He was blessed with many meaningful friendships that will never be forgotten, including Dennis Duncan, Chris Pesta, Mickey Koury, Dave Philpot, and his many buddies from Ben’s V-Twins and the Antique Motorcycle Club, as well as the Thirsty Beaver. He had no enemies—only those who respected and loved him. Quick to forgive and slow to anger, Nelson extended grace easily and lived with a steady, quiet kindness that left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.

On February 22, 2009, Nelson made a life-changing decision to give his life to Jesus Christ, trusting Him as his personal Savior. He was baptized just one week later, surrounded by friends and family.

He will be remembered for his incredible smile, his contagious laugh, and his deep love for life. Though his time here feels far too short, we hold onto the promise that he is now at peace in the presence of the Lord.

While our hearts are heavy and we may not have all the answers for this sudden and deeply heartbreaking loss, we do not grieve without hope, knowing we will see him again.

Nelson is survived by his loving wife, Lisa; his brother, Larry Graves (Christy); his sister, Amy Graves Watts (Jerry); his brother-in-law, Robert Shue; and his sister-in-law, Debbie Dixon (Brock). He is also survived by his nieces and nephews: Georgia Dixon Sink, Bailey Dixon, Faith Dixon, Chad Graves, Craig Watts, Carla Bruce, Melanie Graves, Stacy Graves, Taylor Shue Jarina, Daniel Shue, and Jillian Shue Brawley; as well as his cherished great-nieces and

great-nephews: Parker Watts, Caleb Bruce, Henry Graves, Cameron Jarina, Mason Shue, Coy Shue, Carli Graves, Wyatt Jarina, Eve Brawley, and Avery Brawley, and goddaughter Gabby Koury.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry Carlisle Graves and Evelyn Funderburk Graves, and his sister, Joy Graves Shue.

Visitation will be held at Hickory Grove Baptist Church, 7200 E W.T. Harris Boulevard, Charlotte, NC 28215, on April 26, 2026, from 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm, followed by a Memorial Service at Hickory Grove Baptist Church, 7200 E W.T. Harris Boulevard, Charlotte, NC 28215, on April 26, 2026, beginning at 2:30 pm.

Flowers appreciated or donations to Hometown-Heros Monroe Nc P.O box 953 Monroe nc 2811 OR The Parkinsons Foundation of the Carolina's. Www.parkinson.org. In memory of Nelson Graves.