Fredrick Hughes Graves

Fredrick Hughes Graves, age 82, passed away at his home in Lake City, FL, on June 23, 2024. He was born on December 18, 1941, in Miami, FL to the late Clinton and Minnie Riner Graves. Fred grew up in Key West and after graduation he joined the United States Air Force where he proudly served for 4 years. 

During his remarkable career spanning 38 years in law enforcement, Fredrick served as a State investigator with the Department of Agriculture, a Florida Highway Patrol officer, and a Columbia County Ag Enforcement officer. His unwavering commitment to upholding justice and ensuring the safety of others left a lasting impact on all who knew him. Beyond his professional endeavors, Fred had a passion for the rodeo. His weekends were spent showcasing his talent for roping and being a cowboy. However, his greatest source of happiness came from spending quality time with his beloved grandchildren, creating cherished memories that will be cherished forever.

Fredrick is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Catherine Carolyn Graves; son Marc (Lynna) Graves; step-daughters, Catherine (James) McDaniel and Priscilla (Richard) Knight; step-son Mac A. (Cindy) Douglas, Jr.; granddaughters, Tabitha Sutton, Shena Roberts, Chelsey (Lane) Whitehead, Tiffany Lee McDaniel, Jamie Lee McDaniel, Ashley (Kenneth) Cox, and Taylor Dyals; grandsons Richard (Nicole) Knight Jr., Erick Knight, Cody (Chelsea) Douglas, and Tyler Dyals; as well as many great-grandchildren who were the light of his life. He is preceded in death by his parents.

A visitation will be held at Old Providence Baptist Church on Friday, June 28th beginning 10:00am followed by a funeral service at 11:00am. He will be laid to rest immediately following the service with military and law enforcement honors at Dekle Cemetery. Pallbearers will be members of Columbia County Sheriff's Office and Florida Highway Patrol. Pastor Tim Stout will officiate the services. Archer-Milton Funeral Home is proud to serve the family of Fred Graves.