Stephen Earl Graves, 64, of Thurmont, M.D. passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on Sunday, July 21, 2013. Steve has gone to be his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Steve was born on January 22, 1949 in Washington, D.C. He was the son of the late Frank and Rose Graves.
Steve grew up in Silver Spring, M.D. He attended Charlotte Hall Military Academy which he spoke about passionately throughout his entire life. It was there that he had an impressive array of sports accomplishments including All-American status and offers to play basketball for William and Mary, Penn, and other schools. Steve went on to play basketball briefly at Montgomery College and football for the Semi-Pro team, the Frederick Falcons. Steve's real passion in life was his family with wife Jeanne of 44 years, son Christopher, and daughter Heather. Steve was an extraordinary father, who went above and beyond for his family. Heather was often told how lucky she was to have a father like him. Sam, boyfriend of Heather, looked up to Steve as a father. The love of his life and buddy was his grandson, Dereck, whom he loved spending time with. Steve and Dereck loved to fish together, go camping, and take trips. They spent every weekend with each other. The Matriarch of his family was his Mother-in-law, Sylvia Hudson. He worked in Sales, Finance, and Management at Auto Dealerships all over M.D. and V.A. He starting out selling Jeeps in Colorado. The beauty and energy of John Denver's music and outlook on life inspired him to move his family to live by the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. It was there that he and son Chris discovered their lifelong love for the outdoors and the Denver Broncos football team. It was a thrill of a lifetime to see Denver finally win the Super Bowl after the 1997-98 seasons. He and his son travelled all around to Broncos games for many years after moving back to M.D. Steve also loved the music of the Moody Blues, Yes, Pink Floyd, and others. Steve took annual trips to Massanutten and Ocean City with his family that he enjoyed so much. With dedication and pride Steve was employed many years at Beckley's Camping Center. He leaves behind his sister Rosemarie Mahoney-Dave, brothers; Gary Graves-Sherry, and Tommy Graves-Judy. Also, many special aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins, and best friend Bob Martin. Steve is preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Rose Graves, maternal grandparents Rosina and Gaetano Stefanelli, paternal grandparents, Mary and William Graves, and brother Billy Graves. The family will receive friends and family at Stauffer Funeral Homes, P.A., 1621 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick M.D. on Sunday, July 28, 2013 from 1-2 PM. A Memorial Service will be held at the funeral home at 2:00 PM with Pastor Elza Hurst officiating. Reception to follow at Lewistown United Methodist Church at 11032 Hessong Bride Rd. Thurmont, M.D. Memorial Contributions can be made to Lewistown United Methodist Church, 11032 Hessong Bridge Rd. Thurmont, M.D. and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, P.O. Box 1818 Memphis,TN 38101-9903.