Melvin Graves

Melvin Newton Graves, 86 years old, was called to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on April 12, 2023. He entered this world on December 22, 1936, born to Sylvester and Alma Graves, in Ellisville, MS. He was a cherished member of Brownfields Baptist Church. Melvin was known as a loving, giving, caring, helping, generous Christian man. There wasn't anything he wouldn't do for his family. He helped, advised, guided and taught the ways of life and the ways of God. He worked hard and gave even more. Melvin helped many through his work and side businesses beginning at an early age, running theaters in Ellisville, Mississippi, Dixie Electric in New Orleans, Masonite in Laurel, Mississippi, cattle business, then moving to Baton Rouge to work for Exxon and continuing with his side businesses such as MG Auto Sales and MG Apartments.

Melvin is survived by his wife of 6 years, Barbara Bourgeois; daughter, Marilyn Graves Marsh (Roger); son, Mark Graves (Beverly); grandchildren, Sally Persaud (Harry), Leanna Martin (Cameron), Michael Beadle, and Amber Fabre (David); Barbara's sons, Russell Bourgeois, Ross Bourgeois, and Rod Bourgeois; and her grandchildren, Alaynah, Connor, Daniel and Mark; 6 great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Melvin is preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Eva Turner Graves; father, Sylvester Graves; mother, Alma Johnson Graves; brother, Darrell Graves; and sisters, Alvesta Walters (Garth) and Mattie Welch (Jake).

Serving as pallbearers will be Roger Marsh, Michael Beadle, Ross Bourgeois, Gerald Flowers, Harry Persaud, and Cameron Martin.

Relatives and friends are invited to join the family for the visitation at Brownfields Baptist Church, 11998 Plank Rd, Baton Rouge, LA, on Saturday, April 15, 2023, from 9:00 AM until the Funeral Service at 11:00 AM, officiated by Pastor Steve Bridges. The graveside service and burial will follow at 69 Sand Hill Church Road, in Ellisville, Mississippi, at 4:00PM.

And a special thanks to his amazing caregivers, Elaine Fremin, Dianne Mack and Amanda Church.

Family and friends may sign the online guestbook or leave a personal note for the family at www.bakerfuneralhomeonline.com