Michelle Diane Holmes-Graves

Michelle Diane Holmes-Graves was born on January, 25, 1955 to Joe Holmes Jr. and Ethel Mae Wilson.  Michelle attended Sabin and Vernon elementary schools and John Quincy Adams high school where she graduated in 1974.  Michelle attended college courses at Portland State and earned her certificate in Business. She soon launched her career in retail and quickly became the Manager of Lane Bryant clothing stores. 

After being diagnosed with heart disease Michelle was on a mission to live life to the fullest. People who were unaware of her condition would not have been able to guess because Michelle never complained.  She always wore her bright smile, witty with her delivery in conversation and always showed love to her husband, children and grandchildren. She had a fond love for shopping, lots travel and family Bar BQs. Her favorite word was “Riiight?!” and her husband also known as “Russian” referred to her as Viva Las Vegas. Anyone who knew Michelle knew she was going to BBQ rain, sleet or snow. She loved it when her daughter Angela came and took her on shopping sprees and fine dining. Angela’s favorite word to her mother was “Mom, I got you”.

Michelle attended Highland Christian center faithfully and danced with the 503 Sliders’ on Monday and Thursdays at the Elks Lodge. Michelle lost her battle with Heart Disease on Saturday July 27 2019 where the Lord called her home peacefully.

She leaves to grieve her loving husband Donald D Graves, Daughters: Clinttina Williams (AC Williams III), Angela Holmes (Scott Chapman) and Son Clinton Holmes-Graves. Grandchildren: Robin Richmond, and Legacey Williams.

 Sisters; Rosemary Manus of Los Angeles California; Joe Ann Holmes of Portland; Brother Michael Lee Holmes of Seattle Washington.  Preceded in death were Parents: Joe and Ethel Holmes, and Brother Jarvis Marshall.

Michelle had many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and associates who all will miss her tremendously.

Michelle is absent from the body but will remain in our hearts and minds forever.

Please send cards and flowers to Highland Christian Center, 7600 NE Glisan St. Portland OR 97213

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