Celeste Graves Cause of Death: In Memory of Celeste Graves, ‘The First Lady of Magnolia’, an outstanding historical compass for the community and read Celeste Graves’ obituary and learn more about how she impacted the lives of so many.
Who was Celeste Graves?
Celeste Graves, fondly known as the “First Lady of Magnolia,” passed away on June 29, 2023 at the age of 103. She was a historical compass for her community, leaving behind a cherished legacy that commanded immense respect and admiration from the people of Magnolia.
Born in 1919 in Magnolia, Mississippi, Celeste spent most of her life in the city she loved dearly. Her extensive community involvement, charitable endeavors and dedication to its betterment have earned her the title of “First Lady of Magnolia.”
During her extraordinary life, Celeste was actively involved in various community organizations and causes. She played a key role as a founding member of the Pike County Association of Civil Rights Leaders and was 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, especially 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 dedicated advocate for Southwest Mississippi Community College, and her dedication is honored with a building on campus named in her honor.
Known for her kindness, generosity and unwavering commitment to her community, Celeste was adored by all who knew her. Even at the age of 103, she remained active and engaged in Magnolia, leaving a lasting legacy of service and devotion that will be cherished by generations to come.
Cause of death of Celeste Graves
The Magnolia community is deeply saddened by the passing of one of its beloved and legendary residents. Celeste Graves, a remarkable woman who would have turned 104 on August 30, passed away Tuesday night in Magnolia. He leaves behind a legacy that deeply influenced the history of this area and its people.
Montgomery County 2 Commissioner Charlie Riley fondly remembers Celeste as Magnolia’s historical compass, dedicated to preserving the region’s rich heritage. Through extensive research, she has honored the families and their migration to Montgomery County, sharing the captivating stories she has collected.
Visitation is scheduled for Wednesday from 5 to 8 p.m. at Magnolia Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at the First Baptist Church in Magnolia on Thursday at 10:30 a.m. Celeste was born on August 30, 1919 at her home in Magnolia, the beloved daughter of William Julius Gayle and Emilie Baudat Gayle.
Her father’s roots trace back to the community of New Danille in northern Montgomery County. He settled in Magnolia, formerly known as Mink, at the age of three. Her father worked as a warehouse agent in Magnolia for more than three decades, leaving a significant mark on the community. She graduated in the Magnolia ISD class of 1935, she was among four girls and four boys, only 15 years old at the time of graduation.
Her life journey led her to meet James W. “Dub” Graves while they were staying in College Station. They married 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 (today Hobby Airport). She played a key role as a secretary and dispatcher for a company that trained pilots for the war effort. Her responsibilities included maintaining flight logs and records for pilots in training, including a group of pioneer female pilots who bravely served their country. Her book “View from the Dog House” beautifully captures the experiences of these pioneering women.
Her contribution to history did not go unnoticed. In May 2021, Celeste was the guest of honor at the dedication of the Montgomery County Veterans Memorial Park in Conroe. The monument to World War II female pilots in the park was a testament to her outstanding representation of the group at the ceremony.
A dedicated individual, Celeste joined the Magnolia School District in 1952 as the principal’s secretary. She devoted 34 years to the school district before retiring full-time in November 1985. Her influence extended beyond education, as the Celeste G. Graves Education Support Center was dedicated in her honor in 2006.
Moreover, she enriched the history of Magnolia with her book “Magnolia Memories,” which contains stunning early pictures of the town taken by her father. She played a key role in turning the Magnolia Train Depot into a museum, offering the community a space to nurture its heritage.
Celeste Graves will be greatly missed by all longtime residents of the Magnolia area. Her love, respect and dedication to her community and family made her a true icon and legend. May she rest in peace, forever remembered as the dear First Lady of Magnolia.
How did Celeste Graves die?
The Magnolia community mourns the loss of Celeste Graves, a beloved and legendary resident who has passed away at the age of 103 in Magnolia. Her legacy left a profound impact on the history of the area and its people, as she dedicated herself to preserving the region’s rich heritage through extensive research and storytelling.
Visitation for Celeste will be held on Wednesday from 5-8pm at Magnolia Funeral Home and funeral services are scheduled for 10:30am Thursday at First Baptist Church of Magnolia.
During World War II, Celeste’s contribution was outstanding. She worked at Aviation Enterprises Inc. as a secretary and dispatcher, supporting the training of pilots for the war, including pioneering female pilots. Her book “View from the Doghouse” beautifully captures their experiences and courage.
In May 2021, Celeste was the guest of honor at the dedication of the Montgomery County Veterans Memorial Park in Conroe, representing a group of female World War II pilots. Her influence extended beyond education, as the Celeste G. Graves Education Support Center was dedicated in her honor in 2006.
What’s more, her book “Magnolia Memories” enriched the town’s history with stunning early images, and she played a key role in turning the Magnolia Train Depot into a museum, preserving the community’s treasured heritage. The people of Magnolia will forever cherish the memory of Celeste
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Categories: General
Source: HIS Education