Melissa Ann Graves

Melissa Ann Graves, 59, of Oakwood, Illinois, passed away peacefully on August 8, 2025, at Winn Army Community Hospital in Fort Stewart, Georgia. Born June 16, 1966, in Norfolk, Virginia, to Nancy Cummings, Melissa grew up with a deep love for family, life, and simple joys.

In 1980, she moved to Catlin, Illinois from Long beach California where she attended Catlin High School graduating with the Class of 1984. She Married the love of her life, Charles A. Graves (Chuck), on October 20, 2000, in Newtown, Illinois. Together they built a life filled with devotion, laughter, and adventure, celebrating 30 beautiful years of marriage.

Melissa was the proud mother of Jesse Daniel Eaton of Oakwood Il; Ashtin Raquel Graves of Oakwood Il; Robert Jess Graves (Mckenna Graves) of Fort Stewart Georgia. Her legacy of love continues through her cherished grandchildren: Shawn Eaton, Michael Eaton, Gage Graves, Greyson Graves, Bryce Graves and Bentlee Graves. She is also survived by her mother Nancy Jean Cummings of Perrysville, Ohio, her siblings Gene Bloomfield of Cheyanne, Wyoming; Jennifer Donnan (Steven Donnan) of Sherman, Texas; and Tony Melocosky (Elizabeth Melecosky) of Burkesville, Kentucky, Including numerous family and friends.

Melissa’s life was rich with passions. She was a dedicated Chicago Bears fan, loved the thrill of treasure hunting at thrift stores and yard sales, enjoyed camping and days spent on the lake, and never passed up a chance to listen to the music of the ‘70s and ‘80s. A lifelong book lover, she read more than 1,000 books over her lifetime- sharing them generously with family and friends.

After retiring in 2023, Melissa and Chuck set out to travel the country in their Rv. Her favorite moments were the quiet ones- watching the sun rise or gazing at the stars beside the man she loved.

Melissa will be remembered for her unwavering love for her family, her adventurous spirit, and the warmth she brought into every room. She leaves behind a lifetime of beautiful memories, countless shared stories, family and friends who will forever carry her in their hearts.

The family would like to thank the soldiers at Fort Stewart, Ga, the staff at Winn Army Community Hospital and Andy Carter with Carter Funeral Home. A celebration of life will be held at Kickapoo State Park on September 5, 2025, at the Pavilion from 1pm-5pm, where family and friends will gather to honor her incredible life.