Bessie Marie Ryce Graves, 99 years old, was born on November 29th, 1912 in Newport, MD. to Samuel and Mary Della Ryce. She married James Edwin Graves and had 9 children.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 45 years and 6 children, Alvin L. Graves, Lorraine Graves Millbrook, John E. Graves, Vernon R. Graves, James W. Graves and Doris Graves Williams.

She is survived by 3 daughters, Mary Graves Still, Patricia Graves Lorence and Sandra Graves Lawson, 23 grandchildren and many great and great-great grandchildren.

Bessie was a devoted mother, who didn't complain, just got up every day and did what she needed to do to take care of her family. She was also devoted to her Catholic faith throughout her adult life. In her 50's she learned to drive and received her drivers license, something she treasured to her 90th year.

She was a woman who loved to travel, play bingo and cards, an avid reader, worked many cross-word puzzles, and word puzzles insisting these activities kept a person's mind in great working order. She was right. Many people commented that "her mind is great." Due to working on the farm, she was unable to continue school past the 8th grade. Her lack of a Maryland high school diploma concerned her, so in December 1983, at the age of 71 she obtained a Maryland GED Degree.

Bessie was an active member in the White Plains Moose Club for many years and a member of The Veteran's of Foreign War Club, The Waldorf Elks and The American Legion. She was active in her Neighborhood watch Program and worked tirelessly to raise funds for many charities for her community. She was a worker for The Senior Companion Program for many years and worked at The Charles County Nursing Facility.

In 1997, was presented a plaque for "20 years of Support, Dedication and Commitment as a Member of The Senior Companion Program Advisory Counsel." She also did volunteer work for The Charles County Unit of the American Cancer Society, winning, "Unit Volunteer of the Year." For many years she worked the voting polls in Charles County. In 1995 was recognized by The Maryland Jaycees and presented, "The Nineteenth Annual Outstanding Senior Citizen Award."

Bessie had a great deal of determination, leaving a legacy to get up every day to do the best you can, complain little, and live your life.

Arrangements provided by Huntt Funeral Home.

Visitation
Monday, June 04, 2012
2:00pm - 4:00pm
Huntt Funeral Home
3035 Old Washington Road
Waldorf, Maryland 20601
Driving Directions

Mass of Christian Burial
Tuesday, June 05, 2012
10:00am - 11:00am
Sacred Heart Catholic Church
201 St. Mary's Avenue
La Plata, Maryland 20646