MAITLAND, Fla. — Harvey Graves, 80, formerly of Melrose, Billerica and Lowell, passed away on May 16, 2015 at home, surrounded by his loving family.
Harvey was born in Melrose on Aug. 20, 1934, to Ernest R. and Elsie (Parsons) Graves, the youngest of their nine children. He was a resident of Maitland, Fla. since 2005.
He is survived and sadly missed by his wife of 60 years, Shirley (Tibbetts); his sons Richard and his wife Francesca of Winchendon, Paul and his wife Laura of Marlborough, Thomas of Maitland, Fla., Peter and his wife Donna of Lowell; and his daughter Pamela and her husband Tim of Riverside, Calif. Harvey is also survived by many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews as well as brothers Harry, Clifford and Lee and sisters Elizabeth and June.
He graduated Melrose High School in 1952 where he was elected best looking boy of his class and met the love of his life. He was in the grocery business in Melrose for 25 years as a co-owner of Lyman’s Market.
He kept active in Rotary, tennis, golf and card playing and in later years took joy in walking in the Florida sun with his son and dogs. Harvey served as an officer in his condo association and was well regarded by his neighbors and friends.
He loved the Boston Red Sox, New England Patriots and a good gin and tonic.
A gathering will be held on Friday, June 19, from 4 to 7 p.m. followed by a Memorial Service at 7 p.m. at Gately Funeral Home in Melrose.
In lieu of flowers the family asks that a donation be made to: Hospice of the Comforter, 480 West Central Pkwy., Altamonte Springs FL 32714.
For directions or to leave an online condolence please visit gatelyfh.com.
