Obituary of Gene Graves

Gene Graves born March 25th 1969 and Departed June 24th  2022.

Gene joins his father Vernell Graves of Nashville, TN in eternal rest. Gene leaves behind his mother Laura Graves of Marina California and five sisters: Anita Brown-spouse Derrick Brown,  Apansea Graves, spouse Vincent Pierce, Frankie Graves, LeTina Sims, Tiffany Williams and a host of nephews: Andre, Vince, Earnest, Derrick jr., Desire, Passion, and Jonathan. Great Nieces: Taveah, Marlena, and Viniah. Gene was the eldest of his siblings and the only boy. 

Gene graduated from Monterey High School, 1988. Gene went on to attend some classes at Hartnell College of Salinas California. 

Gene left home at a very young age due to unfavorable conditions and his need for additional support and resources.  Gene was awarded to the state and placed in what he called home with a mom and dad until he turned 18 years old. He then transferred to the care of San Andreas until his passing. Gene was one of the oldest clients of San  Andreas Regional Center.  Gene was born with mental challenges that caused cognitive delay. He thrived with San Andreas. He became self sufficient learning life skills to live independently. He loved his family dearly. He never pretended to like you.  If he didn’t like you you knew it.  Gene had a passion for music, sports and running. Gene competed in Special Olympics and won first place numerous times. He always had dreams and hopes to recording his own album. Collector of Foot Ball Jerseys, and over 2,000 tapes and Cd’s of the greatest hits. Gene had an impeccable memory not to be matched  like any other.  Gene lived a normal life in spite of  his developmental challenges. Gene never fathered any children but he knew all of his nephews and nieces birthdays and their age. Gene called his sisters every year to tell them it was his birthday and then he would hang up. Gene was sensitive and caring. Always  gave to his community by keeping the apartment complex clean. Salinas is the home of Gene Graves. It made him smile. He was loved by so many. He will truly be missed . Gene will forever be in our hearts. Rest peacefully my brother.