Leonard Graves

Leonard Graves was born on June 1, 1943, the only child of Cleola Giles Graves and James “Sunny” Graves, in Houston, Texas. He grew up in the Sixth Ward and attended Harper School through the eighth grade. After the family moved to the Sunnyside area, he continued his education and graduated from Worthing High School. Leonard later earned his Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from Texas Southern University.

Leonard accepted Jesus Christ at an early age while attending Brown Chapel AME Church. He later became a dedicated member of Gethsemane Baptist Church. Leonard served as Superintendent of Sunday School at both churches, sharing his love for God with others.

On April 29, 1968, Leonard married the love of his life, Thelma Graves. The two met in high school and shared a beautiful union, remaining in holy matrimony until her passing in 2018.

Leonard had a deep love for God, family, and friends. He never met a stranger and was always ready to lend a helping hand. He began his career working in the oil field before transitioning into education, where he served as a teacher in Houston ISD until his retirement. Known for his warm sense of humor, he always had a joke or kind word to brighten someone’s day. His love for music, singing, dancing, and bringing joy to others was unmatched and truly one of his greatest gifts.

Leonard is survived by his first cousins Ms. Constance “Connie” Giles, Ms. Deborah Clark, and Dr. Marlynn Stovall, along with many younger cousins, relatives, friends, and neighbors who will miss him dearly.

A visitation for Leonard Graves will be held at Gethsemane Missionary Baptist Church, located at 8775 Flagship Dr., Houston, TX 77029, on December 12, 2025, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am.

Following the visitation, a celebration of life will take place from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.

The committal service will be conducted at Paradise Cemetery North, 10401 West Montgomery, Houston, TX 77088, on December 12, 2025, from 1:00 pm to 1:30 pm.