Loretta J. Graves

     Loretta “Retta” Jeane Graves (Bower), of Mishawaka, IN, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Monday, April 14, 2025, at the age of 86. She was a three-time cancer survivor.

     Born and raised in Gary, IN, Retta became a member of Gamma Phi Beta Sorority while at Indiana State University. She had a lifelong love of music, singing in choirs throughout high school and college, including the acappella group, The Lewettes, and later as a devoted member of the First United Methodist Church in Mishawaka. Retta had many talents including painting, sketching, violin, writing poetry and singing. Her hobbies included gardening, cooking, art, listening to music, spending time with family, and worldly travels, from Egypt to Ireland. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, community volunteer and friend who loved to entertain.

     Loretta was preceded in death by her loving husband of 49 years, William F. Graves Sr.; parents, Odus and Virginia Bower; and sister Martha Jane Madera.

     She is survived by her siblings, Roberta E. (Burke) Higgins, Joella M. (Tony) Muffoletto, Louis G. (Susan) Bower, and brother-in-law Denny J. Madera; children, William F. Graves Jr., Denise L. (Ross) Uitdenhowen, and Edward C. (Melinda) Graves; grandchildren, Benjamin, Eric (Rachel), Cassondra, Hailey (Joshua), and Mason; great-grandchildren, Maximus, Alexander, William, Holly Ann, and Ross; and many other close nieces, nephews and cousins, including the Fearheiley family. Retta will be remembered for her deep love of family and enduring faith in Jesus Christ our Lord.

      Visitation will be held on Friday, May 2, 2025, from 4-7 PM EST at Hahn’s Funeral Home, 505 W. 8th Street, Mishawaka, IN 46544. An additional visitation will be held on Saturday, May 3, 2025, from 11AM-12 PM EST at Hahn’s Funeral Home with service to follow at 12 PM EST with Pastor Joyce Kuhn. The burial will be held at a later date at Blythe Chapel in Owensville, IN.

      The family would like to express their thanks for the wonderful help and care given by Caring Cove Hospice. If desired, friends may make memorial contributions to Caring Cove Hospice, 3120 N. Home St., Mishawaka, IN 46545 or Blythe Chapel, 8141 S. 450 W., Owensville, IN 47665.

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