Wilda Graves

Wilda “Jean” Graves, 90, of Prairie Village, passed away on Monday, May 21, 2018.  She was the daughter of Geneva (Enright) and Samuel McDermeit, born in Hays, KS, on December 17, 1927.  She resided in Mission, KS, for almost 50 years, and at Claridge Court for the past decade.

Jean was married to the late Lowell P. "Jim" Graves, one of the four Graves Truck Line brothers, for 67 years.   A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, she was beloved and admired for her wit, beauty, kindness, and strength.  Many of Jean’s fondest memories were her days spent with Jim, family, and friends at their Lake of the Ozarks vacation home and their winter residence in Fountain Hills, AZ.   She also enjoyed a variety of activities and interests during her lifetime which included playing golf, listening to music, and watching the Royals games on TV.

Jean lost her father, Sam, when she was only five months old.  She was also preceded in death by her mother and husband; brothers Clyde McDermeit and Marvin Varner; and her step-father John Varner.  Precious memories of Jean will live on in the hearts of her survivors, which include her daughter Kathy Stafford and husband Richard of Jefferson City, MO; her daughter Barbara Graves of Scottsdale, AZ; sisters Dorma Miller of Grandview, MO, and Erma Rosetta of Topeka, KS; three grandchildren, James H. (Kim) Stafford of Wardsville, MO, Douglas W. (Amanda) Stafford of Columbia, MO, and Andrea L. Stafford of St. Louis, MO; great-grandsons Justin, Isaac, Rory, and Jace; and numerous adoring nieces, nephews, in-laws, friends, and caregivers.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, June 7th, from 1-2 pm followed by a celebration of Jean’s life at 2 pm.  Her services will be held at Asbury United Methodist Church, 5400 W. 75th St, Prairie Village.  Burial will follow in Johnson County Funeral Chapel & Memorial Gardens.   In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations in Jean’s name to Asbury United Methodist Church, the Salvation Army, or the charity of your choice.