William Michael Graves

William Michael Graves fell asleep in death on Wednesday November 2, 2022 at the age of 58. He was born on May 29,1964, in Bridgeton, New Jersey to William and Ruth Graves. He was the oldest of 4 children.

"Big Mike" as he was affectionately called by family and friends. Michael graduated from William Penn High School in 1983. During his high school years Michael enjoyed playing football. After graduating high school Michael joined Job Corps and earned a certificate to become an electrician. Michael went on to work in construction, as well as the food industry. Michael retired from HSBC after 10 years in finances.

Michael's first met his wife over 25 years ago, the two shared their first date on their front porch. Michael was quite the romantic and showered Annette with poetry and flowers. This is one of the qualities that won over Annette. They began dating after that night and the two wed after 2 years on June 4, 2006.

Michael had a gentle spirit; he was known as the "family electrician". Michael had a close relationship with his sister Renee and her husband Richard, he lived next door to them for years. Michael oved to go over and share a meal with his sister and brother-in-law on a regular basis. Michael also loved seafood and always looked forward to eating crabs with his wife during their weekly date. Michael was the greatest Pop-Pop and vacation often with his grandchildren. Michael enjoyed boat fishing with his family, along with cooking, spinning records and watching football.

Michael as baptized as one of Jehovah's Witnesses on December 1, 2007. He loved the ministry and was able to serve as a regular pioneer for as long as he possibly could. His health declined in his late forties as he courageously battled kidney failure among other illnesses. This disease made him weak physically, but his love for Jehovah and Jesus Christ remained strong. He even engaged in the ministry for the Circuit Overseer's visit a week before passing. He believed the Bible's promise of living forever.

Michael was preceded in death by his mother Ruth N. Graves, father William C. Graves and brother Lamont B. Graves.

Michael leaves behind to cherish his memory his devoted wife Annette M. Howard-Graves, daughter Cubbit Boyd(Travon Boyd) and son O'Mar Saunders, Sr. (Meika Saunders). Two sisters, Renee Gregory(Richard Gregory), Anita Means(Gregory Means). Three aunts; Joanne Peopples-Cheaks, Dianne Carroll(Sumblar Carroll), Rose Brown(Lloyd Brown). Four grandchildren; Omar Saunders, Jr, Lauren Saunders, Kingston Saunders, Taylor Parker, a host of nieces, nephews, spiritual brothers, and sisters are left to mourn his loss.

Michael was a wonderful husband, grandfather, brother, and friend. All should take comfort in knowing Michael will enjoy everlasting life.

Memorial services on Saturday November 12, 2022 from Kingdom Hall of Jehovah Witnesses 3011 Heald Street, B Side Wilmington, DE 19802 starting at 3pm.