William A. Gravely Obituary in Martinsville at Hairston Funeral Home

Obituary For William A. Gravely

William A. Gravely, 84, of Martinsville, Virginia departed this life on Monday, May 11, 2020, at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital. He was born July 11, 1935 in Henry County, Virginia, the son of the late Obie Gravely and the late Bertha A. Gravely. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one sister, Henrietta Virginia Turner; and one brother, James Gravely.

William was a mechanic for many years before becoming disabled. He was a faithful member of Mount Olivet Holiness Church for over sixty years.

Those remaining to cherish his memory are: one daughter, Loretta (Henry) Penn of Martinsville, VA; two grandchildren, LaMaine and FiAnna Penn both of Martinsville, VA; one great-granddaughter, Aleah Penn; four stepchildren, Arnest, Annette, Donald and Tony Hairston; one sister, Lillian Kirby of Martinsville, VA; caregivers loved and never forgotten, Jeffrey Gravely and Lewis Gravely; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

All services will be private according to the CDC guidelines. A public viewing will be held for Mr. Gravely on Thursday, May 14, 2020 between the hours of 1 p.m. till 5 p.m. at Hairston Funeral Home. Family will receive friends at the home of his sister, Lillian Kirby, 845 Smith Road, Martinsville, VA.

Hairston Funeral Home, Martinsville, VA is serving the Gravely family.

Photos & Video

Condolences & Tributes

Add A Condolence

LOVE Y DADDY

na

As the service ended, I made my way over and introduced myself. Easily the sharpest dressed man at my Aunt's funeral, there was an unmistakable familiarity and resemblance that intrigued me. William was one of Mom's first cousins and my Grandma's (Ida Hodge Watkins) nephews. He knew my Mom, Lucille, all my aunts & uncles and even remembered my older sister. Though blind, his warmth, exuberance and infectious personality easily lit up a room! We enjoyed worshipping together whenever I visited Axton, sharing meals together and I was always captivated by his many stories and life experiences. Like the African Griot, he told me stories of the old days and was a missing link to my family's history. He told me of his daughter, Loretta, and how proud he was of her! He said there were also many Hodge-Gravely relatives, my relatives, he wanted me to meet and vowed to introduce me to. Sadly, our time ran out. Perhaps, I'll still get to meet them someday. William shared a birthday with my twins and each year he'd call and they in turn would sing Happy Birthday to him. We loved and enjoyed him so much! There is a now a void whenever I visit Axton. I honor and miss him! To his dear daughter and family, you remain in my thoughts and prayers. I still look forward to meeting you. From what William shared, you are some special people! Much love to all! David Andrew Bundy, Pittsburgh, PA

na

You are Benjamin Gravelys nephew and we are cousins, Obie is my Uncle.
Actions speak louder than word I am still so proud to have you as our
family legacy continues in young relatives Victorious to the end.
Family
VLyons

na

Sorry for your loss Thomas+Shirley Reynolds

na

Rest easy Abesent from body but present with the lord.

na

Praying for your family during this difficult time.
Bishop Denzell Kellam & Spirit of Christ Worship Center family

na

I've known and loved William for so many years and hate that I could not attend. My condolences go out to all who feel as I do. Please call me Loretta so I can personally show my appreciation for him. I love you and him. Addie (513) 661-1131

na

Best father in this world never will ever forget y papa love y forever.Rest in peace my father

na

I am so sorry for you loss, I know that God is with our family in this time of loss, to be absence from the body is to be presence with the Lord, Love ya'll

na