REIDSVILLE, NC - Mr. John Irvin Graves, III, age 74, passed away Wednesday, April 1, 2026 at his residence.

A viewing will begin on Thursday, April 9, 2026 from 12 until 7 p.m. at McLaurin-Harris Funeral Home, 721 East Morehead Street, Reidsville, NC.

Funeral services will be held Friday, April 10, 2026 from the Mt. Hermon Baptist Church, 350 Mt. Herman Church Road, Ruffin, NC. Visitation with the family will begin at 2:30 p.m., followed by the service at 3 p.m. Overseer J. Troy Blackwell, eulogist.

The committal and interment will follow in the Mt. Hermon Baptist Church Cemetery.

*** Please allow additional travel time as the Mayfield Road bridge is currently closed. (detour signs are posted). ***

All other times, the family will only receive friends on Thursday, April 9th from 4 until 8 p.m. (138 Brentwood Drive, Reidsville)

John Irvin Graves III, 73, of Reidsville, North Carolina passed away peacefully at home with family on Wednesday, April 1, 2026.

Born on September 15, 1951 to John Irvin Graves II and Florence Parker Graves. John was a 1969 graduate of Booker T. Washington High School in Reidsville, NC. He carried a strong work ethic throughout his life with dedicated years of service to companies such as GTE, Miller Brewing Company, Shionogi Inc., and American Tobacco Company. John retired from Goodyear Tire and Rubber in 2013.

John was known as a Jack of all Trades—a man who could fix nearly anything, brighten any room, and stir up just enough mischief to make life fun. His humor, generosity, and enormous heart defined him. He lived with a tenacious spirit, always working hard to support and uplift his family.

"Bubba" as he was so fondly referred to by his family and friends was distinctly identified around town driving his big red truck always gleaming from a fresh wash. He had a sharp pool game and smooth bowling skills. A true country boy from down 87 with a heap of cousins and family. John is survived by his devoted wife, Joyce P. Graves, of Ruffin, NC. Together, they built a beautiful life and family following their 1973 nuptials, lovingly celebrated at their family home.

Their union was blessed with two children: daughter Nishika Graves of Charlotte, NC and son Irvin (Christina) Graves of Reidsville, NC. John was also the proud grandfather of four adoring grandchildren: Allayah GravesMuhammad, Centalius Graves, Irihanna Graves, and Isaac Graves, each of whom brought him immense joy. He is also survived by his siblings: Aubrey Graves of Gibsonville, NC, Melvine (Anthony) Grice of McLeansville, NC, Wanda (Herbert) Summers of McLeansville, Angela (Jerry) Graves of Gibsonville, Pamela (late Rodney) Roundtree of Winston-Salem, Iris (Frank) Coleman of Gibsonville, and Monica Jenkins of Raleigh. Two brother-in laws Robert (Carol) Pankey of
Reidsville and a sister-in-law Mamie Jean Pankey of Reidsville.

John was preceded in death by his parents, John and Florence Graves, brother Clinton Graves, sister-in-law Florence Parker and brother-in-law Charles Pankey.

John's legacy is one of love, laughter, and unwavering devotion. His presence will be deeply missed, but his impact will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

The family wishes to thank Gentiva Hospice, Burlington, NC for their compassionate care and support.

For those who wish to send flowers or condolences, please direct them to McLaurin-Harris Funeral Home.

Service by McLaurin-Harris