Mary E. Graves
October 5, 1952 - June 24, 2024
Mary Elizabeth Graves passed away peacefully at home on June 24, 2024, with her youngest son by her side. Born on October 5, 1952, in Fairbanks, Alaska, she was one of seven children to the late Wilma Tess Crotty. Mary graduated from East High School in 1971 and attended Penn State Behrend in Erie. She had a lengthy career with Erie Insurance, retiring after 35 years of service in 2014. She was also a bartender most weekends at the Gem City Elks Lodge.
Mary enjoyed cooking, bowling, hosting family gatherings, spoiling her grandchildren, watching the Dallas Cowboys, helping others, bragging about her kids, and most of all... dancing. She will be remembered for her smile, her laugh, her big heart, and most of all, for being there for anyone in need. Anytime, anywhere. She spent her final days resting comfortably, eating ice cream, and watching her favorite TV shows, all while being waited on hand and foot as only a queen deserves. She will be missed the most by those who knew her as a sister, "Miss Mary," "Grammy," and "Mom."
Mary is survived by her children, Lieutenant Colonel Damyan L. Graves (Stacey), Marcie L. Graves, both of Erie, PA, and André O. Graves of Los Angeles, CA, along with many nieces, nephews, and grandkids. She is forever remembered by her siblings Patrick E. Crotty Jr. (Cathy) of North East, PA, Richard Crotty (Marty) of Bokeelia, FL, Susan L. Miller of Whiteville, NC, Tess E. Crotty of Kealakekua, Hawaii, and Robert F. Crotty and Daniel J. Crotty, both of Erie, PA.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to her "team," who went above and beyond to ensure she was as happy and healthy as possible with the best quality of life in these past few months: Stewart, Tom B., Michela, Annette, Virginia, Nina, and Ailsa.
A private memorial was held in Erie, PA, for family and close friends. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association or to the family in care of the funeral home for a charity to be named in her honor at a later date.
“If you’re alright, I’m alright.” – Miss Mary Graves