James L. Graves' Obituary
James L. "Jim" Graves, 90, was surrounded by his loving family as he walked gracefully into God‘s arms on Friday November 14, 2025, in Ft. Myers, Florida.
Born on September 1, 1935, in Ft. Lupton, Colorado, Jim was the son of L.C. “Bun” and Alice H. Graves. During his school years in Louisville, Colorado, Jim sang in a group called “The Flashy Five” and participated on multiple athletic teams. He proudly enlisted and served his country in the United States Army from 1955 to 1958 as a Crypto Equipment Repairman, while being stationed in Korea.
Jim built a distinguished career as the director of industrial security for several major corporations, including General Electric, Litton Industries, and Lockheed Martin Corporation. His leadership and dedication to safeguarding innovation and national interests earned him respect throughout the industry.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Jim was deeply committed to service and community. Jim was especially proud of being a Master Mason for 22 years at Lodge #711 of Landsdowne, PA. He volunteered as a trolley driver at a local cancer center in Florida, offering support and compassion to those facing difficult journeys. Jim enjoyed playing “Santa’s Helper” for his grandchildren and other community events during the Christmas holidays. A passionate student of family ancestry, he spent countless hours tracing lineage and preserving family history for future generations. He also found joy on the softball field as an umpire—an activity that combined his love of sports with his sense of fairness and integrity. Jim enjoyed playing golf and watching his lifelong favorite team, The Denver Broncos.
Jim was affectionately known as “Pop Pop & Grandpop” by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren—a title he wore with pride and warmth. He is lovingly remembered by his children: Sheri Zadrovitz and her husband John; Beth Graves and her wife Aurora Contrino; James L. Graves Jr. and son-in-law Barry Abel. His legacy continues through his 11 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 58 years, Alice M. Graves; his daughter Keri S. Abel; and his parents.
Jim’s life was marked by devotion—to family, country, career, and community. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him. A Memorial Service will be held on January 7, 2026, at 1:30 PM at Fort Myers Memorial Gardens 1589 Colonial Blvd. Fort Myers, FL. A Service and Internment will be followed by a reflection gathering immediately after.
In lieu of flowers please consider donation to The American Cancer Society. Their website is: https://donate.cancer.org
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