Thomas Alden Graves was born on September 29, 1953, in Eunice, New Mexico. He was lovingly adopted by Sam and Sue Graves and, as a young child, born anew into the family of our Lord through the waters of Holy Baptism. As he grew, he was confirmed in his faith in Jesus Christ, affirming the faith that would remain an important part of his life.
As a young boy, Tom grew up in New Mexico, where he helped on the family ranch, raising and caring for thoroughbred horses. After graduating from Eunice High School, Tom continued his education at New Mexico State University in Las Cruces, where he met the love of his life, Carolyn Sue Knauth. After graduating from NMSU, Tom chose to pursue a law degree at Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law in Dallas, Texas. He graduated Magna Cum Laude, and shortly after wed Carrie on August 17, 1978. Tom worked for and eventually became a named partner of Figari Davenport, and after his time there, continued his practice at Mckool Smith in Dallas, where he ultimately retired at the age of 62. Legend has it, he never lost a case...
After residing in Dallas, Tom and Carrie moved to Red Oak, Texas, where they settled down and expanded their family through adoption. He first became a father in 1991 when they adopted Katarina, and again in 1993 when they adopted their son Samuel. Tom was a loving, kind, and attentive dad, who never missed a ballet recital or taekwondo tournament, no matter what his litigation schedule looked like.
Tom and Carrie are steadfast, faithful members of Cross of Christ Lutheran Church. Throughout his many years of membership, Tom served the congregation in numerous leadership roles, including President of the Congregation, Bible Class teacher, Elder, and Head Elder. He also held many other offices and positions, generously sharing his time, talents, and leadership. As an attorney, Tom used his professional knowledge and expertise to oversee and advise the congregation on its legal matters, providing invaluable service to Cross of Christ. His dedication and willingness to serve were a blessing to the church and its members.
In his leisure time, Tom enjoyed tying flies, pursuing his love of fishing and bird hunting, raising hunting dogs, and spending as much time as he possibly could enjoying nature. He took great pleasure in caring for his home and cherished time spent with his family - his wife, children, and grandson. He also deeply enjoyed following various U.S. Supreme Court decisions and gathering with longtime high school and college friends and colleagues. Above all, Tom had a deep and abiding love for God's Word. He treasured reading his Bible and studying the Lutheran Confessions, which was reflected in his strong faith and lifelong commitment to the Lutheran Church.
Tom’s beloved father, mother, and sister, Suezann, were waiting with open arms to welcome him into the Kingdom of Heaven.
He leaves behind his loving wife, Carrie; daughter, Katie; son, Sam; and grandson, Alex. He will also be dearly missed by his many cousins, second cousins, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and brothers- and sisters-in-law, along with countless other family members whose lives he touched.
The Family of Tom Graves invites memorial gifts to be made in his name to the Glioblastoma Foundation or Cross of Christ Lutheran Church located at 332 Cedar Street, Cedar Hill, Tx 75104.
