Barry Howard Graves

Barry Howard Graves, age 73, of Asheville, North Carolina, passed away on December 5, 2022 from Appendix Cancer (ACPMP). Barry was predeceased by his parents Howard & Lucy Graves and his brother Bryan Graves. Barry is survived by his wife, of 44 years, Marlene Graves and his daughters, Elizabeth Graves of Buffalo, NY, Suzanne Squires and her husband Bill Squires of Greensboro, NC, Kathleen Graves and her husband Kyle Thomas of Seattle,WA, his grandchildren Eli Squires and Lincoln Squires, his siblings Bruce Graves (Carole) of Simpsonville, SC and Caroline Bone (Bill) of Memphis, TN, and many beloved nieces, nephews and cousins.

Barry was born in Humboldt, TN to Howard Everette Graves, who owned & operated Humboldt Lumber Company, and Lucy Caroline Long Graves, an eighth grade science teacher. Barry went on to become an Eagle Scout and attend Tennessee Tech University for his Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering and Memphis State University for his Master of Business Administration. He worked at the North American Telephone Company in Fairhope, AL then went on to work for Westinghouse/ Eaton for 43 years as a technical salesman. Barry traveled to more than 10 countries, and 40+ states.

Barry met the love of his life and future wife, Marlene K. Smith, in 1976 at an apartment complex mailbox, and immediately asked her to dinner. They were married in 1978 and had three daughters. He was an active member of Skyland United Methodist Church for the 38 years he lived in Asheville. Barry enjoyed driving the church bus, participating in the safety team, and helping Habitat for Humanity builds.

A Memorial Service for Barry has been scheduled for Saturday January 21, 2023, at Skyland United Methodist Church in Asheville, NC at 2pm. A time for visitation will be held prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, we would ask that the memory of Barry Graves be honored by acts of service, eating a family meal together or a donation. Donation recommendations include Skyland United Methodist Church or Habitat for Humanity.

The care of Mr. Graves has been entrusted to Groce Funeral Home’s Lake Julian team.