Thomas Chester Graves, 85 – of Cape May, NJ flew to the loving arms of his Savior, Jesus on Sunday, May 14, 2023. He’ll always be remembered for his wry humor and kindness. Born in The Bronx on December 28, 1937, his life was filled with service to others. First, he served in the US Navy, from which he retired after 24 years, then from New York State Corrections after 23 years. He was a founding member, past president and vice president of The Ancient Order of Hibernians, Division 1 in Orange County, NY. He loved to celebrate his Irish heritage.
He is predeceased by his parents, Edward and Mary (formerly Donohue) Graves; and siblings: Mary, Edward, Peter, Sarah Edmondson, John, and Beatrice Staples. His first marriage to Maureen F. McCarthy produced 5 children: Julie, Susan Freitas, Tommy, David, and Deirdre Schloicka. He is survived by grandchildren: Matthew, Anna, Patrick, Mary Claire, Sophie, Kara, Reiley, Ashley, David, Kate, Brendan, and Grace. He leaves behind his loving wife Beverly and hundreds of friends and relatives who were touched by his presence in their lives.
A Visitation will be held on Monday, May 22, 2023, during the hours of 10:00AM to 12:00PM at Flynn Funeral & Cremation Memorial Centers, Inc., located at 3 Hudson Street, Chester, NY 10918. A Prayer Service will start at the Funeral Home at 12PM. Burial will follow at Orange County Veterans Cemetery, located at 111 Craigville Road, Goshen, NY 10924 at 1:00 PM.
A repast will follow at the Joseph Duelk, Jr. Division 1 Hall locate at 1 North Main Street, Monroe, NY 10950 following the burial, all are invited.
Funeral care was entrusted to Thomas & Brendan Flynn and the staff of Flynn Funeral & Cremation Memorial Centers.
Please feel free to leave a condolence for the family to view.
