William Frank Graves

William “Frank” Graves of West Ashley entered into eternal life Tuesday, August 11, 2020, after a long period of health issues. He resided at Brookdale Assisted Living since 2016. Before that he resided at 1425 Birthwright St. starting in 1968.

Frank was born March 27, 1957 in Morehead City, NC.  He was the son of Retired Coast Guard Chief Robert Newton Graves and Sandra Sloan Graves, both deceased of eastern Tennessee. He was preceded in death by a sister, Debbie Graves Edge who had several children.

He was a 1976 graduate of Middleton High School, were he played football and was member of The Middleton Singers. He had an Associate Degrees in Electricity, HVAC & Drafting from Trident Tech.  Frank was a 30 plus year Master Machinist at the Naval Weapons Station Charleston and was on the physical plant maintenance crew. He often spoke of the challenges of making parts from blank stock to replace the worn, broken components of the many fluid pumps that pulse throughout that base (a base which handles nuclear warheads for our submarine fleet).

He was a Master Councilor and Chevalier in the Order of DeMolay at St. Andrew’s Parish Chapter. He also served as an Adult Advisor for the Order.  Frank was a 40 year Life Member of St. Andrews Masonic Lodge #367, where he served as The Master three times. He was a dedicated Brother and rarely missed a meeting.

Frank was a big man who had a big heart to match. He was loyal and generous to a fault and was often taken advantage of. The ability to give unconditional love was his nature. Even after 4 strokes, he reminded me to be tolerant in my opinions that I may not know everything I need to judge.

It has been my privilege to oversee the care of my friend and brother, William Frank Graves. I will remember Frank in my heart fondly. I also want to recognize the Officers and Members of St. Andrews Lodge whose support has been unwavering towards Frank.

God sent a special friend to Frank and I, Sandra Bedenbaugh.  She has done countless, thoughtful things that I was unaware needed to be done. Sandra has also has been a spiritual inspiration to Frank and I. Love and Special thanks to you, Sandra.

Due to Covid19 restrictions, there will be a Private Interment at Live Oak Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to your favorite charity.

Peace be with you my Brother,
So Mote it be