Alma Sue Graves

Alma Sue Graves, age 88, of White House, TN passed away on April 12th, 2025. She was born in Sumner Co. on January 4th, 1937, to the late Horace and Dora McMurtry Cole. She is preceded in death by her husband of 66 years Clifford J. Graves. She is also preceded in death by her granddaughter Misty Graves Smith; brothers Claude Cole and Dean Cole; as well as her sister Lois Clark. She is survived by her son and her daughter-in-law Cliff and Karen Graves; her sister Wilda Underwood; granddaughters Jessica King (Jeremy), Jennifer Newton (Jeremy), and Misty’s husband Adam Smith. She also leaves behind her great grandchildren: Connor Newton, Tyler King, Allie Smith, Logan Newton, Jack Smith, Kendall King, and Brianna Smith, as well as her sister-in-law Barbara Graves.

For over 21 years, Alma dedicated herself to her career as a seamstress at the Washington Manufacturing Company, where her husband, alongside her, shared both work and life. Their devotion to each other was evident; they were true partners who navigated life together, embodying a bond that would span 66 years that inspired those around them.

Alma was not only a diligent worker but also a kind, caring, and gentle soul. She had a way of making everyone feel seen and heard, and she never hesitated to lend a helping hand or offer her support. "You always knew where you stood with her," friends and family would say, recalling her honesty and her ability to "tell it how it is." These qualities endeared her to many, as she was someone who would always be there for you no matter what.

A devoted child of God, Alma was a member of the White House First Baptist Church. Her faith guided her and was evident in the way she lived, exemplifying kindness and compassion. She would be baptized there and even go on to bring her son to services at the church as well.

Alma's heart for family was unmatched, and her proudest accomplishments were undoubtedly her loved ones. She reveled in the joys of motherhood and grandmotherhood, always making time for her family. She embraced activities that kept her active, from gardening to landscaping, diligently maintaining her yard and sharing the fruits of her labor with her family. Her garden provided not just vegetables, but also lessons in sustainability, as she lovingly taught her daughter-in-law how to can vegetables. Alma’s home was filled with warmth and the delightful aromas of her cooking, especially her famed mashed potatoes, which her grandchildren would never fail to request.

A visitation for Alma Sue Graves will be held on April 16, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, followed by a funeral service at 1:00 PM, both taking place at Cole & Garrett Funeral Home and Cremation Services in White House, TN. She will be laid to rest in Hillcrest Municipal Cemetery shortly thereafter, ensuring her legacy lives on.

As we remember Alma, we celebrate a life well-lived—a life marked by selflessness, love, and nurturing spirit. Her unwavering example will serve as a guide for all who had the privilege of knowing her. She leaves behind a rich legacy that will forever resonate in the hearts of her family and friends.