Graves Braxton

In Loving Memory of Graves Monroe Braxton March 29, 1941 – December 13, 2025

Graves Monroe Braxton, age 84, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, December 13, 2025. He passed away peacefully at home with family, including his beloved wife Alice, by his side. Married in 1962 after a four-year courtship, Graves and Alice shared over 67 years together building a life filled with love and devotion. They had 2 children, Jon and Beth. Graves was a lifelong resident of Alamance County, and the only son of the late Ralph C. and Betty Emma Graves Braxton.

Among those closest to Graves was his sister, Kay Troxler. Their bond was evident in daily phone calls—an evening ritual that continued until the last week of his life. Kay and her husband George were not just family but also long-time neighbors, and Graves counted George among his dearest friends.

Graves attended E. M. Holt School through 9th grade before graduating from Williams High School with the Class of 1959. He spent 3 years attending Elon College (mostly just waiting for Alice to grow up so he could marry her!)

Blessed with a sharp mind for mechanical and electrical challenges, Graves was the go-to person when a clock, car, appliance, or toy needed repairs. He demonstrated these abilities professionally as a Plant Manager at Isley Knitting Mills and later as an automotive technician with Brown’s Service Center (now Norris Automotive). Even after retiring, Graves could typically be found in his workshop fixing small engines or lawn mowers for friends. His talents also extended to woodworking; crafting furniture, models, and household items for family, and patiently sharing his skills by teaching others if they were willing to learn.

Summers at the Braxton home were marked by a thriving vegetable garden. Graves delighted in making sweet pickles from home-grown cucumbers, which he used as the secret ingredient in his renowned potato salad. His flower garden also brought him joy, especially his many types of roses.

Graves was an avid surf fisherman, making frequent trips to Ocean Isle Beach and the Outer Banks. He was enthusiastic about model trains as well, and he built a layout that filled an entire room. This hobby delighted his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren over the years – as well as many guests.

In 2015, Graves was diagnosed with Myasthenia Gravis. Coupled with severe arthritis, these conditions eventually necessitated the use of a wheelchair.

Despite ongoing pain and health challenges, Graves seldom complained and faced each day with resilience and a smile.

Graves was an original member of Grace Bible Fellowship in Burlington. Over the years, he and Alice hosted many gatherings in their home particularly the 1970’s church youth group. While he was unable to attend church in recent years, he watched the services online nearly every Sunday. He deeply valued the support and visits from his church family and friends.

Graves will be remembered as a wise, loving, and devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle and friend. He is survived by his wife, Alice Pickard Braxton; his son, Jon Braxton; and his daughter, Elizabeth “Beth” Braxton Burke.

He leaves behind nine grandchildren who affectionately knew him as “Pop”: Josiah (Elizabeth) Burke, Aaron (Emily) Burke, Zack (Mya) Burke, Adam Braxton, Emma Burke (Justin) Shipp, Maggie Burke (Nolan) Bryant, Abigail Burke (Kellen) Meade, Olivia Burke (Joshua) Crain, and Hannah Burke.

At the time of his passing, Graves eagerly awaited the arrival of his 22nd great- grandchild. Visits and video calls from his grandchildren and great- grandchildren brought much joy to his final years. Despite the family being spread across the United States, Graves knew each by name and often inquired about their lives:

Elijah, Malachi, Vivienne, Zaylin, Emily, Nathan, Sapphire, Samuel, Isaiah, Samson, Ezra, Abigail, Urielle, Abiyah, Joel, Barnabas, Levi, Arthur, Lisa, Lydia, and Eowyn – Pop cherished every one of you!

“Uncle” Graves will also be fondly remembered by his many nieces and nephews. He also had countless cousins; all of whom are aware of the deep affection he held for them. His love extended beyond family, as he became a father figure to many who considered themselves his “adopted kids.” To all those who affectionately knew him as “Pop” or “Daddy Graves,” know that he loved you dearly – you know who you are!

Celebration of Life

A service to celebrate Graves’ life will be held on Friday, December 19, 2025, at 2:00 PM at the Lowe Funeral Home Chapel. The service will be officiated by Will Webster and Michael Hayes, pastors of Grace Bible Fellowship. Friends and family are invited to gather prior to the service from 12:30 to 1:45 PM, and at other times at the family home. A private burial will take place at Alamance Memorial Park.

Special Thanks and Memorials

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to their church family at Grace Bible Fellowship, Ken Harman, Junius C Mechelle Braxton, Bob Mooney, T.F. “Buddy” Thornton, Sidney George and the many other friends and relatives who called or visited during these difficult months.

Memorial contributions may be made to Grace Bible Fellowship, 2228 Moran Street, Burlington, NC 27215. www.gracebiblefellowshipnc.com

To watch the service and sign the online register book, please visit: www.lowefuneralhome.com