Celeste Graves Cause Of Death, How Did Celeste Graves Die?
by Alaguvelan M
Updated Jul 01, 2023
Who was Celeste Graves?
Celeste Graves, fondly known as the "first lady of Magnolia," passed away on June 29th, 2023, at the age of 103. She was a historical compass for her community, leaving behind a cherished legacy that garnered immense respect and admiration from the people of Magnolia.
Born in 1919 in Magnolia, Mississippi, Celeste spent the majority of her life in the town she loved dearly. Her extensive involvement in the community, charitable endeavors, and dedication to its betterment earned her the title of "first lady of Magnolia."
Throughout her remarkable life, Celeste actively participated in various community organizations and causes. She played a pivotal role as a founding member of the Pike County Civil Rights Leaders Association and had a significant presence in the local chapter of the NAACP. Her contributions extended to serving multiple terms on the Magnolia Board of Aldermen, and she was an active member of the Magnolia Historical Society.
Celeste's philanthropic efforts, particularly in the field of education, were commendable. She established a scholarship program that offered invaluable support to local students pursuing higher education. Moreover, she became a devoted advocate for Southwest Mississippi Community College, and her dedication was honored with a building on its campus named in her honor.
Known for her kindness, generosity, and unwavering commitment to her community, Celeste was greatly admired by all who knew her. Even at the age of 103, she remained active and engaged in Magnolia, leaving an enduring legacy of service and devotion that will be cherished for generations to come.
Celeste Graves Cause Of Death
The Magnolia community is deeply saddened by the passing of one of its beloved and iconic residents. Celeste Graves, a remarkable woman who would have turned 104 on August 30, passed away on Tuesday night in Magnolia. She leaves behind a legacy that has profoundly impacted the area's history and its people.
Montgomery County Precinct 2 Commissioner Charlie Riley fondly remembers Celeste as the historical compass of Magnolia, dedicating herself to preserving the rich heritage of the region. Through extensive research, she honored the families and their migration into Montgomery County, sharing captivating stories she had gathered.
A visitation is scheduled for Wednesday from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Magnolia Funeral Home. The funeral services will be held at Magnolia's First Baptist Church on Thursday at 10:30 a.m. Celeste was born on August 30, 1919, at her home in Magnolia, the cherished daughter of William Julius Gayle and Emilie Baudat Gayle.
Her father's roots are traced back to the New Danille community in northern Montgomery County. He settled in Magnolia, formerly known as Mink, at the tender age of three. Her father served as the Depot Agent at Magnolia for over three decades, leaving a significant mark on the community. Graduating in the Magnolia ISD class of 1935, she was among the four girls and four boys, merely 15 years old at the time of her graduation.
Her life journey led her to meet James W. "Dub" Graves while they resided in College Station. They tied the knot on February 16, 1939, and were blessed with two children, Jimmy and Tarvah.
During World War II, Celeste worked for Aviation Enterprises Inc. at the Municipal Airport (now Hobby Airport). She played a crucial role as a secretary and dispatcher for the company, which trained pilots for the war effort. Her responsibilities included maintaining the flight log and records for the training pilots, including the group of pioneering female pilots who bravely served their country. Her book "A View from the Doghouse" beautifully captures the experiences of these trailblazing women.
Her contributions to history did not go unnoticed. In May 2021, Celeste was an honored guest at the dedication of the Montgomery County Veteran's Memorial Park in Conroe. The park's monument to the female pilots of World War II was a testament to her remarkable representation of the group at the ceremony.
A devoted individual, Celeste joined the Magnolia school district in 1952 as the secretary to the superintendent. She dedicated 34 years to the school district before retiring from full-time work in November 1985. Her impact extended beyond education, as the Celeste G. Graves Education Support Center was dedicated in her honor in 2006.
Moreover, she enriched Magnolia's history through her book "Magnolia Memories," featuring captivating early pictures of the city taken by her father. She played a vital role in transforming the Magnolia Train Depot into a museum, offering a space for the community to cherish its heritage.
Celeste Graves will be deeply missed by all the long-time residents of the Magnolia area. Her love, respect, and dedication to the community and her family made her a true icon and legend. May she rest in peace, forever remembered as the cherished First Lady of Magnolia.
How Did Celeste Graves Die?
The Magnolia community mourns the loss of Celeste Graves, a beloved and iconic resident who passed away at the age of 103 in Magnolia. Her legacy has left a profound impact on the area's history and its people, as she dedicated herself to preserving the rich heritage of the region through extensive research and storytelling.
Celeste's visitation will take place on Wednesday from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Magnolia Funeral Home, with the funeral services scheduled for Thursday at 10:30 a.m. at Magnolia's First Baptist Church.
During World War II, Celeste's contributions were remarkable. She worked at Aviation Enterprises Inc. as a secretary and dispatcher, supporting the training of pilots for the war, including the pioneering female pilots. Her book "A View from the Doghouse" beautifully captures their experiences and bravery.
In May 2021, Celeste was an honored guest at the Montgomery County Veteran's Memorial Park dedication in Conroe, representing the group of female pilots from World War II. Her impact extended beyond education, as the Celeste G. Graves Education Support Center was dedicated in her honor in 2006.
Moreover, her book "Magnolia Memories" enriched the city's history with captivating early pictures, and she played a vital role in transforming the Magnolia Train Depot into a museum, preserving the community's cherished heritage. Celeste's memory will forever be treasured by the people of Magnolia
Celeste Graves Cause Of Death - FAQs
Celeste Graves passed away due to natural causes.
Celeste Graves was 103 years old when she died.
Celeste Graves passed away on June 29th, 2023.
Celeste Graves was known as the "first lady of Magnolia" due to her extensive involvement in the community and her dedication to its betterment.
Celeste Graves established a scholarship program to support local students' college education and was a devoted supporter of the Southwest Mississippi Community College.