Archie L. "Big Daddy" Graves Sr.

Archie Lee Graves Sr., was born October 16, 1929 to the union of Elder and Flossie Graves in Nashville, Arkansas. He was one of 14 children born to this union; his parents and 12 siblings preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his wife Geneva and four children Mozell, Neil, Rose and Cynthia.

Archie left Arkansas at the tender young age of 16, and relocated to Phoenix, AZ. He worked in the cotton fields until he was drafted into the United States Army in 1951. He served his country and received decorative medals and an honorable discharge in 1953. After his discharge, Archie returned to Phoenix where he met and married Geneva Williams. Together they raised nine children and after her death he nurtured four more. He loved life and never met anyone whom he considered to be a stanger. Archie also worked as a tire repairman at CoHill & Lowe, Firestone and Cal 'Mat from where he retired in 1992.

Archie leaves to cherish his loving memory; daughters Bernice Young and Debra Dansby both of Phoenix, AZ; sons Archie Graves, Charles Graves, Tommie Graves, Ricky Graves, Leroy Graves and Calvin McCowin, all of Phoenix, AZ and Delbert Amie of St. Louis, MO; 52 grandchildren; 43 great grandchildren; sister Diane Preston of St. Louis, MO; his companion Margaret Parrish of Phoenix, AZ; longtime special family friend Lizzie Smith along with a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.