Jo Ann Graves

Jo Ann Spencer Graves, 85, of Beckley, passed away on Tuesday, January 6th, at Bowers Hospice House after a long illness. Born May 6, 1929 in Beckwith, Jo Ann was the daughter of the late Oather and Goldie Spencer. She graduated from Trap Hill High School in 1947. Throughout Jo Ann’s life there were two things that were her undeniable focus: her family and her faith. Jo Ann married Robert Graves in January 1952. Throughout the 1950’s, she worked at the family’s grocery store, Graves & Son, in Eccles. She then spent the rest of her life committed to raising her two daughters. She was an active participant in the Homeroom Mother program and a 4-H Leader for more than 10 years. An avid reader and noted Bible scholar, Jo Ann was a leader in area churches and devoted many years to teaching Adult Sunday School classes. Jo Ann was a model of faith and set an example for all who knew her. She was strong, loyal and faithful throughout her entire life. In addition to her parents, Jo Ann was preceded in death by her sister, Norma Jean Spencer Bland and brothers, Oather Spencer Jr, Leonard Spencer and Noel Spencer. She is survived by her husband, Robert Graves; daughters, Karen Graves Portnoy and Jenny Graves; sisters Drema Gaye Spencer McKay, Dessa Lea Spencer Edwards and Mary Spencer Dwier. The family will hold a memorial service on Friday, January 9th, at 2:00 PM in the Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens Mausoleum. Interment will follow the service. In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial contributions be made to Hospice of Southern WV.