Carole J. Graves

Carole J. Graves (née Blevins) Age 84, of Pontiac, entered into eternal rest Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at the Arc at Dwight. Born January 20, 1942, at the family home in Piper City, Carole was the daughter of John Blevins and Mabel (née Offill) Weaver. On June 3, 1960, Carole married Warren J. Graves in Pontiac, IL, and together they shared many wonderful years filled with laughter, devotion, and a deep love for family until his passing. Carole had a gift for making people feel welcome the moment they met her. She was lively, warmhearted, endlessly social, and truly the life of the party. Whether she was telling stories around the card table, laughing with friends, or gathering with family, Carole brought joy and energy everywhere she went. Her family adored her, and those who knew her will remember her as someone whose presence could brighten an entire room. She dedicated many years caring for others as a CNA at Humiston Haven and later through home health care, where her compassion and nurturing spirit touched countless lives. Caring for people came naturally to Carole, and she carried that kindness into every part of her life. Carole was deeply involved in her community and her church, First Lutheran Church, where she faithfully participated in Bethel Bible Study and generously gave of herself to others throughout the years. She was a Cub Scout leader, Sunday school teacher, member of a card club and the Red Hat Society, and volunteered her time whenever she could. She enjoyed crocheting and was known as a wonderful baker whose homemade treats were loved by family and friends alike. She was also an avid card player who loved spending evenings playing Euchre, Canasta, and Pinochle with her husband, family, and friends. Carole and her family also spent many happy years camping and boating together, creating memories filled with laughter, togetherness, and fun. More than anything, Carole treasured time spent with the people she loved most. Surviving are her loving children, Sharie (Ray) Setterlund and Tim Graves, both of Pontiac; her cherished grandchildren, Kalli (Mike) Verdun, Lukas Setterlund, Austin Graves, and Aubrey Graves; her sisters, Sharon Alexander and Margaret Mathas, both of Indiana, MaryAnn (Larry) Stone of Missouri, and Jackie (Mike) Westra of Arizona; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, great-nieces, and great-nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, John Blevins and Mabel Weaver; her husband, Warren J. Graves; her infant daughter, Brenda Lee Graves; her sister and brother-in-law, Jane and Butch Oelschlager; her brother-in-law, Bob Mathas; her brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Bill and Frances Eckel; her stepfather, Lester Weaver; and her maternal grandmother, Sophie Offill. Visitation will be held Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at First Lutheran Church. Funeral services will immediately follow beginning at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor James Lehmann officiating. Interment will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery. Arrangements and care have been entrusted to R. W. Patterson Funeral Home & Crematory. Memorials in Carole’s name may be made to First Lutheran Church or UpliftedCare, honoring her lifelong spirit of kindness, compassion, and caring for others. To share memories or offer condolences, please visit Tammy’s online guestbook at www.rwpattersonfuneralhomes.com or find us on Facebook. R.W. Patterson Funeral Home & Crematory 401 E. Main St., Braidwood, 815-458-2336 www.rwpattersonfuneralhomes.com

Carole J. Graves

January 20, 1942 - May 6, 2026

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Carole J. Graves

January 20, 1942 - May 6, 2026

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