It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Lillian Graves on November 10, 2024, at the age of 73. A beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, Lillian departed from this earthly life surrounded by the love of her family and the comforting presence of her Lord.

Lillian was preceded in death by her loving mother, Desta Salyers; her devoted father, Worley Salyers; her sweet infant brother, Wendell Salyers; a beloved mother and father-in-law, Neva and Walter Graves Sr.; a dear sister-in-law, Wendy Salyers; and respected brother-in-law, Donald Ledwell. We are happy she is welcomed into the Kingdom of Heaven, not only by those she has shared countless, beautiful memories with, but also those whom she has never met– and has taken the time to learn about, through diligent research of her ancestry.

Lillian is survived by her loving husband of 53 years, Arnold Graves, who stood by her side in every season of life and helped bring all of her crafting dreams to a reality, especially when she needed the wreath hung "just an inch higher and a smidgen to the left". Together, they built a family filled with continuous adventures and laughter. As a devoted mother and teacher, Lillian poured her heart and soul into her children, Kristi Graves and Michael Graves (Natalie), instilling in them the values of faith, compassion, and love for ALL people. Her greatest treasures were her two grandchildren, Josiah and Alese Graves, who brought boundless joy and light to her life. She is also survived by her loving brother Gerald Salyers, sister Faye Ledwell (Terry), sister-in-law Brenda Shaver (Mark), brother-in-law Walter Graves (Rita), and many nieces and nephews whom she adored. Lillian loved and was committed to her family– and always made sure there was room at the table and plenty of food for everyone (for days).

A memorial visitation celebrating Lillian's life, will be held on Saturday, November 23, 2024, from 2 p.m. until the time of the memorial service, which will begin at 4 p.m., at Walker-Eastman-Heydinger Funeral Home, 98 W. Main St., Norwalk. All are welcome to attend and honor the memory of this remarkable woman whose legacy of love and faith will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Crossroads' Community Church, with "Blessings and Bows" in the memo line, to assist families in need with providing their children a very special Christmas. Lillian spent many years, working namelessly behind the scenes, single-handedly crafting thousands of handmade nametags/ornaments to adorn each special package. Many families have kept her specially crafted ornaments on their trees year after year. She would be delighted to know we are helping someone's Christmas be a little brighter.

Though we mourn the loss of our beloved Lillian, we take comfort in knowing that she is now in the arms of her Savior, rejoicing in everlasting peace. We will miss her presence in the day-to-day but can rest in confidence that we will reunite with her again. Online expressions of sympathy may be made by visiting: www.walkereastmanheydingerfh.com