With deep sorrow, the family of Rebecca Virginia Graves announces her peaceful passing on the morning of December 7, 2018. She was born on August 13, 1941 in Memphis, Tennessee. Her parents, Kirby and Dolores Houston emphasized education and Rebecca Graves attended top universities including Chicago State University, Eastern Michigan University, and DePaul University earning both Bachelor and Masters degrees in Education.

She met the love of her life, William Albert Graves while she attended Chicago State University and married in 1963. They shared a lifetime of 55 years of marriage with many friends, parties, and wonderful loving homes in Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, and North Carolina.

Rebecca loved children and was a natural Educator. She retired after working for over 50 years in both the City of Chicago and Guilford County School Systems in a variety of different positions. Her commitment and determination to help the younger generation pursue their futures continued after retirement with her volunteer work.

Service to her community was a primary value of Rebecca and she served in a number of organizations religiously. As an active member of Providence Baptist Church, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Top Ladies Of Distinction, National Epicureans and many more. She participated in each organization, holding numerous leadership roles at the local and national levels.

Rebecca Virginia Graves transitioned to the next life and will be with her beloved husband, Bill Graves, who passed just a few months ago. She will be greatly missed by her children Tanya Graves Hamilton (son-in-law Darryl Hamilton) and Jason Albert Graves (daughter-in-law Vakesia Graves). She is also survived by her five grandchildren: Gary Lynn Barnes, Houston Lonnie Barnes, Julian Jason Graves, William Melvin Hamilton, Jadon Alexander Graves. Her nephews and family in Chicago, Illinois and Arlington, Texas were also critical bricks in her foundation.

A service honoring her life will be held Thursday, December 13, 2018 at Providence Baptist Church; 1106 Tuscaloosa St. Greensboro, NC. The visitation will begin at 10 am and the service will follow at 11 am. The interment will take place following the service at Guilford Memorial Park; 6000 W Gate City Blvd. Greensboro, NC.