Joseph Charles Graves, Jr., of Woodbury, formerly Pitman, passed away on August 20th, 2024, at the age of 97.

Born to the late Joseph and Mildred (nee Zane) Graves, on March 2, 1927, in Pitman, NJ. Joseph is the beloved brother of the late Hugh Grimshaw and the late Mary Hahn. Growing up, Joseph lived in Pitman Grove and was a proud "Grover". He attended Pitman High School during World War II, when he was drafted at the age of 18 in 1945. Joseph's bravery at such a young age awarded him the World War II Victory Medal as well as the Army of Occupation Medal. Joseph returned from the Army in 1947 at the age of 20. With his whole life ahead of him, Joseph began to visualize what kind of man he wanted to be. While Joseph was known to be a mischievous child, the Army helped Joseph channel his feelings and ornery personality to become a practical, educated, hardworking man. In 1950, Joseph married his first wife. The pair welcomed their son John Graves into their lives, and ultimately separated in 1957.

While Joseph was making a monthly trip to his finance company, he was almost in a car accident. This incident rattled Joseph deeply, leaving his hands trembling while trying to write a check. A bank clerk named Barbara (nee Wiest) offered to write his check for him, and it was love at first sight. Joseph was so appreciative of the kindness Barbara extended to him, as a 'thank you' he asked her to lunch at Sandra Lee Restaurant in Pitman, NJ. Barbara eagerly accepted this invitation, and the pair became inseparable ever since.  Joseph's outgoing, charming personality won Barbara over entirely, as the pair married on Valentine’s Day of 1958 and have spent a loving 66 years by each other's side. Together they liked to spend time together, go dancing, and travel. Joseph and Barbara had so much love for each other, they decided to share it by welcoming their three loving children, Vicki (Mike) Kent, Rich (Lori) Graves, and Sandy (Tom) Kappes. Being a father, Joseph wanted to give his family the life that he did not have in his own childhood. He worked hard, long, hours and dedicated his energy into making sure his family had no financial worries. As a family they would go on camping trips, fishing, and travel. One summer they attended the Assateague Island Pony Penning Week where they watched the horses swim to the mainland. Joseph's children recall their dad's ability to spark a conversation with complete strangers. He held a light inside of him that people gravitated towards, with his kind demeanor he made friends anywhere he went. This part of his personality was helpful for his career as a ham radio operator with the callsign "N2HEH" as he connected with hundreds of people who listened to his broadcast. While he loved being a father, Joseph thrived as a grandfather to his beloved grandchildren Tim, Kevin, Dan, Michael Jr., Rebecca (Brian), Patrick, Jennifer (Jon), John, Christy (Mike), Thomas Jr., Megan (Jason), and Jaclyn (Kris). Joseph is also the beloved great-grandfather of thirteen loving great-grandchildren. 

Joseph is a beloved community member of Pitman that will be missed dearly. He was the Pitman Golf Club President and a member of the Pitman Men's Softball League. In Sandra Lee's restaurant, where Joseph and his beloved Barbara had their first date, a photo of the lovebirds hangs above the booth they sat in. Joseph had a love for cars and working on them with his kids, he trained them in proficiency of holding the flashlight and knowing what each tool is called, or in some cases, they knew what "Whatcha-call-it" to hand dad. He loved to broadcast over the radio and spent time traveling with his family on cruises where he stole the show with his quick wit and charisma. Joseph also had a passion for photography. Joe had been rewarded the nickname “Photo Joe”. He documented everything any anything throughout his life, preserving as much as possible. Joseph's family often joke about how Joseph could always be found with a camera in his hand.

Joseph will be dearly missed by those who knew him for his charismatic, charming personality, and his love for his family. 

In lieu of flowers, please donate in Joseph's name to St. Jude's Children Hospital, or a charity of your choice. 

Relatives and friends are invited to attend Joseph's viewing on Saturday, August 24th, 2024, from 9:30am - 11:30am, followed by an 11:30am service at McGuinness Funeral Home, located at 34 Hunter Street, Woodbury, NJ, 08096. 

Interment will be handled privately.