Richard Thomas Graves

Richard Thomas Graves, age 82, passed away on Friday, July 26, 2024, at Horizon Medical Center in Dickson, TN. He was born in Waverly, TN on September 9, 1941, to the late Hattiebell Tinnell and Austin Graves. Richard proudly served his country in the U.S. Army for 28 years. After retiring from the military, he started his own business, XPERTEC, a consulting firm. Richard proudly served his country in the US Army during peace time and war. Richard joined the US Army soon after his marriage to Joan in 1962 as an enlisted soldier. As this was during the Vietnam War, Richard was promptly assigned to a non-combat posting. However, Richard wanted to fight for his country and requested a combat posting in Vietnam. He joined a Special Forces unit while he was there. He served proudly and was highly decorated for his service. Upon his return from Vietnam, Richard applied to Officer Candidate School and was accepted. He became an officer. He served in Military Intelligence for the remainder of his military career. He achieved the rank of Major. Richard was an avid distance runner. He took first place in Mule Mountain Marathon in Fort Huachuca, Arizona. He also enjoyed weightlifting and photography.

Left to cherish his memory is his wife, Joan Graves of McEwen, TN; sons, Eric and his wife Jennifer of Herriman, Utah and Shawn Graves; grandchildren, Emily, Walker, Sara Jane Coan, and great granddaughter Daisy Coan.

Along with his parents, Richard is preceded in death by his brother, Thomas Graves.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, at 4:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. at Luff-Bowen in Waverly. A graveside service will take place on Thursday, August 1, 2024, at 11:00 A.M. at Richlawn Cemetery in Waverly, TN.

Arrangements are entrusted to Luff-Bowen Funeral Home.

Online condolences may be made by visiting our website at luffbowen.com.

2400 Highway 13 North, Waverly, TN 37185

931-296-2497