Henry H. Graves

Henry Harrison Graves, 96, of Sunnyside passed away on Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born Oct. 8, 1929 in White Bluffs, WA to James William Graves and Wilhelmina Kate Spencer Graves Small.

Henry grew up, graduated high school, and enlisted in the Air Force in 1948. He met his future wife in June of 1952, and married Marlene Jane Robertson on March 7, 1953.

As a career Air Force man, Henry traveled the world, and took his family with him. From Germany to Japan, around different states and South America, Henry worked his way up through the ranks until he retired as a Master Sergeant after 25 years of service.

His passions included bowling, baseball, and playing any kind of game that brought the family together because there was nothing he enjoyed as much as having his family around him. There was always room for one more in Henry’s house, and he always let everyone know they were welcome any time.

Christ was also a big part of his life, it was where his family and home was rooted. Henry loved attending every church function, and even at 95 years old would give rides to those in need to make sure they could go too. He had a particular love for the monthly men’s breakfasts, and anywhere he could bring his mashed potatoes too.

Henry is survived by his children, William Michael Graves of Goose Creek, S.C., David Henry (Mindy) Graves of Kennewick, daughter-in-law Debbi Graves of Selah, Thomas Scott (Gwendy) Graves of Basin City, Paul Brian Graves of Sunnyside, and former daughter-in-law Robin Graves of Charleston, S.C. He is also survived by his sisters Ella Mae Radach and Nellie Driesen. He is further survived by his grandchildren Adam, Shawn, Cynthia, Emily, Daniel, and Baileigh; great grandchildren Brody and Sara Kate.

He is preceded in death by his loving wife Marlene, sons Stephen and Mark, parents and step father Walter Small, brothers and a sister.

Viewing and visitation will be held on Monday, January 19, 2026 from 1:00 p.m.to 5:00 p.m.at the Smith Funeral Home, Sunnyside, WA.  Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. Cornerstone Church, Sunnyside, WA   Burial with Military Honors will follow at the Lower Valley Memorial Gardens, Sunnyside, WA.   Smith Funeral Home is in care of arrangements.  

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