James Keath Graves, Jr.

James Keath Graves, Jr., of Petersburg, Virginia, passed away on April 4, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, whose presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Born and raised in Petersburg, Keath attended Petersburg High School and later graduated from Tidewater Academy. He built a life rooted in hard work, dedication, and connection to those around him. Throughout his career, he worked with J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home and Southern Autotronics, and he also owned his own business, Custom Auto Restyling, along with spending many years in the automotive field.

Keath shared five loving years of marriage with his wife, Melanie Carsley. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and companionship.

He is survived by his wife, Melanie Carsley; his daughters, Lindsey Paige Walker and spouse, Danny Almodovar, and Jamey Lynn Graves and husband, Jacob Williamson; his stepson, K. Lee Olds and wife, Corrine Olds; his grandchildren, Brooks Walker, Leigha Walker, Genevieve Almodovar, Everleigh Olds, Hattie Olds, and Davis Olds; his sisters, Pamela G. Mayes and husband, Syd Mayes, and Beth Graves Minton; and Avery Mosby, whom he loved as a son. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father, James Keath Graves, Sr.; his mother, Betty Lou Hall Graves; and his daughter, Angela Marie Graves.

Keath had a deep love for life's simple joys. He cherished time spent with family and friends, especially at Lake Gaston. He found happiness in fishing, woodworking, cooking and grilling, and in music-often dancing, singing, and even enjoying a good shag when the moment called for it. He was also a member of the men's quartet, "Guys on the Corner," where he shared his love of music and community.

Above all, Keath will be remembered as a loving husband, a devoted father, brother and grandfather, and a loyal friend. His warmth, humor, and quick wit, along with his unmistakable presence, will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

A visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at Wesley United Methodist Church, 3701 Conduit Road, Colonial Heights, Virginia, followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wesley United Methodist Church.