Anita Denise Graves

April 5, 1952 – October 25, 2025

Anita Denise Chandler Graves, beloved daughter, sister, “Mom,” aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 25, 2025.

She was preceded in death by her nephew, Stephen DeLowell (1997); her father, Fielden “Phil” Chandler (1997); her former husband and close friend, Donald Graves (2008); her mother, Alfreda Henley Chandler (2014); and her sister, Donna Marie Chandler DeLowell (2018).

She is survived by her niece, Angela N. Spranger (Keith); her chosen daughter of 42 years, Jennifer Dunbar Blades (Leif); her extended family including Freida Smith, Stephanie Smith, and Stephanie’s sons Karl Smith and Stephen Gallop; as well as her devoted neighbors Rev. James Lewis & Mrs. Renada Lewis, and Chaye Neal-Jones and her daughter, Chloe, all of whom lovingly accompanied her through her final days. Anita also leaves behind countless friends, cousins, and church family who will remember her faith, laughter, and radiant presence. Anita leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, faith, and joy that will continue to bless those who knew her.

Born on April 5, 1952, in Chicago, Illinois, Anita was the cherished baby girl of Alfreda and Phil Chandler, and the devoted younger sister of Donna DeLowell. She grew up surrounded by love and laughter, spending her childhood playing cards (especially Bid Whist), dancing, and enjoying time with her sister and cousins on her father’s side — Gonzella Anderson (now deceased) and her children Juan Derrick (JD) and Teresa (“Treedy”). Anita and Donna’s Chicago childhood was filled with family meals, card parties, and memorable adventures — including the time they found small garter snakes in the grass and wrapped them around their bicycle handlebars as they cruised through their neighborhood.

In 1972, Anita relocated from Chicago to Richmond, Virginia, joining her father at Nabisco. She worked in the Bake Shop and was well known and loved by her Nabisco family for her humor, generosity, and infectious joy.

Anita’s faith was central to her life. For many years, she attended St. John’s Catholic Church with her mother, where they helped facilitate weekly Bingo nights together. At Rising Mount Zion Baptist Church Sandston, she sang soprano with the Heavenly Gospel Choir for decades. Upon returning to New Bridge Baptist Church, she served in the Praise Dance and Usher Ministries.

Services

A Family and Friends Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. at Forest Lawn Cemetery, followed by a Celebration of Life at 12:00 noon at New Bridge Baptist Church, 5807 Newbridge Road, Richmond, VA, on Thursday, November 13, 2025.

IN LIEU OF FLOWERS, let's make donations to the Henrico Community Food Bank - she would love that! Remember to choose Memorial so you can attach her name to the gift. You can do it online here: https://henricocommunityfoodbank.networkforgood.com/projects/180772-hcfb-donations