John Robert Graves, 80, of Chesterfield, Missouri, passed away peacefully on June 26, 2025. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and servant-leader, John lived a life of purpose, compassion, and faith.
Born in Des Moines, Iowa, on April 15, 1945, he graduated from Brigham Young University where he played football as a running back and linebacker and remained a lifelong fan of the BYU Cougars, especially football.
John spent his career in executive management and operations across various manufacturing industries before retiring in 2012. He also served in the Army National Guard in military intelligence and graduated from officer training as a 2nd Lieutenant.
A lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, John served a mission in Germany, held numerous leadership roles including bishop and branch president, and later served with his wife Janie as full-time missionaries in Nauvoo, Illinois. He was often the first to arrive at church activities—helping set up, greeting people with a warm handshake and smile—and the last to leave, putting away chairs and cleaning up with quiet diligence. John was always mindful of those in need, often visiting the sick and afflicted in silence and offering help that lightened burdens without fanfare. He also served his community as a city councilman in North Salt Lake City.
He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Janie Naydeen Graves; sons Jason (Rebekah) Graves and Matthew Graves; siblings Carolyn Walton, Barbara Graves, and Richard Graves; and grandchildren Taylor, Kaleb, Kira, and Katelyn. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Betty Graves; brother Edward Graves; and granddaughter Annika Graves.
A visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 12:00 p.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 10445 Clayton Road, St. Louis, MO 63131. Burial will follow at Resurrection Cemetery, 6901 MacKenzie Road, St. Louis, MO 63123.
His family is deeply grateful for the kindness and support shown during this time. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages acts of service in John’s memory.
I am heartbroken. John and Janie were absolute angels to my mom. She thought so highly of both of them. I know Janie and family are grieving his loss. He was a very special man. I know Moma was waiting to say hello when he crossed over. My thoughts and prayers are with the family. ❤️❤️💔💔❤️❤️