Paul Homer Graves
Paul Homer Graves
April 22, 1947 – July 1, 2026
Paul Homer Graves, also known as Mr. Basketball, Groovy, Uncle Paul, Paul to his grandkids, Coach Graves, and Dad, died at Forrest General Hospital on July 1, 2026. He was an original Tylertown High School Blue Devil whose career as coach and educator spanned more than three decades. During this time, he sweltered on the hot and sandy practice fields of Fort Walton, battled on the floor of the Superdome with the Franklinton Demons, yelled at referees in the tinderbox gym at Dexter, and watchfully walked the halls of South Pike High School.
He methodically and mostly mulligan-free shot for even par at Tylertown Country Club. Duct tape was his superpower, and with wrists wrapped, he fought the ongoing battle of cutting grass and making repairs around the house. He never turned down anyone who needed help, and although his carpentry fixes usually weren’t the most aesthetically pleasing, they were always sturdy.
At times he would say: “Hey, it is what it is,” but he never took that attitude towards family, students, or any other people (or animals) fortunate enough to cross his path. He was devoted to his family and expressed this through Saturday morning golf rounds and an ever-present listening ear. He was the favorite son-in-law of Freddie and Nelson Wood, he loved his wife, and he was her tireless caregiver.
One could say his life was the epitome of Matthew Chapter 25, versus 34-40.
Survivors include his wife of 61 years, Virginia Hayle Wood Graves; children, Shannon Fortinberry (Keith) and Christian Graves (Braseye); grandchildren, Taylor Fortinberry, Leslie Brewer, and Virginia James; great grandchildren, Jack Brewer, Henry Brewer, Lucy Brewer, Sissy James, Scarlett James, and Blakely Fortinberry; siblings, Faye Packwood and Benny Graves.
He is preceded in death by his father, Harlon Peter Graves; mother, Nellie Gray Graves; siblings; Peggy Conerly, Harlon “Bill” Graves, Jr., and John Graves.
Vitiation was at New Zion Baptist Church, Tylertown, July 7, 2026. Burial followed in the Wood Cemetery. Rev. Mack McElveen officiated. Hartman Hughes Capps Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
Pallbearers were Greg Bilbo, Shea Johnson, Kyle Ferguson, Eric Ferguson, Clint Husser, and Chris Packwood. Honorary pallbearers were Keith Fortinberry, and Taylor Fortinberry.
An online registry book can be signed at www.hartmanhughesfuneralhome.com
