ETNA – Arlene M. Graves, 95, passed away peacefully Sept. 15, 2013, at a Pittsfield nursing home. She was born June 15, 1918, in Detroit, a daughter of Arthur and Ethel (Lowe) Peterson.
On April 3, 1937, she married Kenneth W. Graves and enjoyed more than 70 years of marriage. During this time, they were blessed with seven children; 22 grandchildren; 44 great-grandchildren; and 13 great-great-grandchildren.
Arlene loved the outdoors, spending time with her family and friends, gardening, and making many handmade gifts to share. She was a member of the Sportsman’s Alliance of Maine Auxiliary. As the eldest citizen of Etna, she held the Boston Post Cane.
She is survived by her children, Rebecca and husband, Leslie Towle, of Palmyra, Berkley Graves, and Dale and wife, Donna Graves, all of Etna; daughters-in-law, Cheryl Graves of Etna, Sandy Graves of Hartland, and Rhonda Graves of Palmyra; sister-in-law, Flora Graves of Etna; and a special neighbor, Warren Shaw Jr. of Etna.
She was predeceased by her husband in 2007; her children, Raymond, Donna, Kenneth, and Arthur; three grandsons, Kirk, Kevin, and Ryan; her siblings; and many brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.
The family would like to express a special thank you to all the friends and staff of Pittsfield Nursing and Rehab who have given such wonderful care to Arlene.
Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 18, at Crosby & Neal, 117 Main St., Newport, with her grandson, the Rev. Kenneth Graves officiating. Friends may call 10 a.m. until time of services. Burial will be at Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Etna. Those who wish may leave written tributes at www.CrosbyNeal.com.
Arlene Mae Graves
